PLANS for a new “cutting-edge” bus depot capable of supporting an all-electric fleet are a step closer to reality after cabinet approval at Warrington Borough Council.
The existing depot, on Wilderspool Causeway – home to Warrington’s Own Buses – is a key Warrington Deal project and is set to be relocated to a new site off Dallam Lane.
The relocation of the bus depot will be an important step in unlocking key development opportunities in the Southern Gateway Regeneration Area and importantly, the proposed new bus depot would also have the capability of accommodating an all-electric bus fleet – functionality the existing bus depot does not have.
Once Warrington’s Own Buses have relocated to the new depot, which is being delivered by Warrington&Co, the existing depot will be demolished to pave the way for new development.
Warrington’s Town Deal – the £22m programme of seven pioneering projects – has a clear focus on improving public transport, through both the new depot and the complementary sustainable travel package of works. Approval to move the existing bus depot to a new, purpose-built and cutting-edge facility, is a huge step forward for Warrington’s ambitious Town Deal plans.
Cabinet member for transportation, highways and public realm, Cllr Hans Mundry, said: “Approval for relocating the bus depot and construction of the new depot are important steps in realising our Town Deal ambitions.
“It will be one of the first projects as part of our Town Deal programme to be rolled out, and it’s exciting that the new facility will have the potential to accommodate an all-electric bus fleet – which is another key ambition for us on our transformational transport journey.
“By enabling the potential electrification of our buses, this project supports the key priorities of our Local Transport Plan (LTP4), and our climate emergency declaration, which aim to promote cleaner, greener and more sustainable travel in and around Warrington.”
Managing Director of Warrington’s Own Buses, Ben Wakerley, said: “We have acknowledged for some time that the current depot is not in an ideal location for our buses to access.
“I’m therefore very pleased to see that not only will our new depot be in a much better location, but it will also be able to support an all-electric bus fleet. I am pleased to see continued investment in the town’s bus service, which will play an increasingly important role in supporting our shared mission to improve air quality and sustainable transport in the borough.”
For more information about the seven Warrington Town Deal projects, visit warrington.gov.uk/my-town
How the new depot will look from Bewsey Road
