Chaired by transport secretary Heidi Alexander and local transport minister Simon Lightwood, the meeting brought together key figures from across the country, including mayors David Skaith (York and North Yorkshire), Richard Parker (West Midlands), and Steve Rotheram (Liverpool), alongside Scotland office minister Kirsty McNeill and Scottish transport minister Fiona Hyslop.

The panel focused on developing a 10-year pipeline of zero-emission bus orders to give UK manufacturers long-term certainty, enabling further investment, growth, and job creation within the sector. Currently, around 60% of zero-emission buses funded by the government are being built by UK-based manufacturers, with support provided through schemes like ZEBRA (Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas).

Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary, said: "By mapping out future demand, we’re giving industry the certainty they need to grow – supporting jobs, delivering better buses for passengers, and accelerating our journey towards a cleaner, greener transport system, while delivering our Plan for Change."

The meeting emphasised the importance of using public investment to drive not only environmental gains but also social benefits, supporting local employment, inclusivity, and regional economic growth. Attendees committed to ensuring that every pound spent on zero-emission buses delivers maximum value to UK communities and manufacturing.

Earlier this year, the government announced £38 million to deliver 319 new zero-emission buses across 12 English cities by 2027. Among the largest allocations were nearly £20 million to the West of England Combined Authority for 160 electric buses, £3.9 million to Hull City Council for 42 buses, and £2.3 million to Nottinghamshire County Council for 42 new vehicles. A further £28 million has since been allocated to Sheffield and Bradford.

These efforts are underpinned by the Bus Services Bill, currently progressing through Parliament, which aims to give local authorities greater control over planning services and introduces powers to phase out new diesel buses in England from no earlier than 2030.

Jason Prince, director of the Urban Transport Group, added: "Investing in greener buses is good for our transport systems, our health and the economy. Through the manufacturing panel, we’re working together to unlock their full potential and deliver real benefits for passengers and local communities."

Source: Mayors and Ministers back British manufacturers and greener buses - GOV.UK