Conway Street bus depot in Hove to become zero-emissions

The Conway Street bus depot in Hove is in the middle of a huge transformation in anticipation of 16 new electric buses being delivered to the bus company.

Hove MP Peter Kyle and city councillor Trevor Muten visited the site to see how the works are getting on - with buildings being demolished and new electric charging points being installed.

Peter Kyle and Ed Wills discussing the plans (Image: Brighton and Hove Buses)

The redevelopment means the depot, one of three in the city, will be ready for the new buses by 2026 - funded by the government under a scheme dubbed Zebra.

The £10.5 million project was funded by bus company owners Go-Ahead and £2.9 million from Brighton and Hove City Council.

Mr Kyle, who is Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, said: “It was an honour to see the past and future of the bus depot for our city. The old building has served us well but now we look to the future with excitement and see a building that will help us all breathe cleaner air and enjoy an even better bus service. I can't wait to see it built now.”

The new electric buses will produce zero emissions at the tailpipe, helping to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in the city.

The depot redevelopment will take around 18 months to be operational.

Councillor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and public realm, said: “It was very exciting to see the plans for the Conway Street bus depot. It is another demonstration of how Brighton and Hove is leading the way in creating infrastructure to help meet our net zero ambitions.”

Brighton and Hove Buses managing director Ed Wills said the zero-emissions depot is "vital" to maintain good air quality in the city.

He added: "We believe these electric buses, with a high frequency and 24/7 service, will encourage more people to choose buses for their local travel requirements."