Government confirms 175 ‘green’ buses for two cities

Transport Minister Norman Baker has announced £13m is being spent on 175 new low carbon buses in Manchester and Liverpool by March 2012.

The funding is part of a pot of £46m revealed on Wednesday that will see 542 new low carbon buses on roads across England next year.

Baker said: "My vision is for a transport system that cuts carbon and creates growth.

"Low carbon buses emit around 30% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than standard diesel buses and use around a third less fuel – that is why it was so important to kick-start the market.

"They also represent an important and developing industry – both in this country and throughout the world – which has the potential to create jobs and boost economic growth.

"Green buses are therefore an absolute no brainer – they are the perfect combination of targeted investment that help people make the transport choices that are good for society as a whole."

Green, low carbon hybrid-electric buses supported by the fund are already in operation in London, Manchester, Oxford and Reading. Electric buses supported by the fund are operating in Durham.

A total of 143 buses now in operation supported by the fund includes 51 in Greater Manchester, 50 London, 27 in Oxford, six in Reading and Leeds, and three Durham.

Details of buses ordered through the fund in the North West includes: