Updated Dover Fastrack plans announced
A purpose-built, all-electric rapid bus transit system connecting Whitfield with Dover town centre and Dover Priory railway station is set to launch this summer.
Kent County Council (KCC) is delivering the Dover Fastrack scheme in partnership with Dover District Council (DDC) and Homes England. A Housing Infrastructure Fund grant supports housing developments at Whitfield and the former Connaught Barracks site.
Infrastructure improvements worth £23 million, designed to give buses a smoother ride through the town, are progressing well. The new electric buses are supported with an £850,000 grant from the DfT’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme. The dedicated fleet of five electric buses will be gradually introduced on the route by the end of the year, with alternative vehicles used in the interim.
The partnership is focused on making it easier to choose public transport on buses that will emit zero emissions.
Upon delivery of the new electric fleet, Stagecoach will run five dedicated fully electric buses along the route, connecting with Southeastern’s High Speed services from Dover Priory.
KCC had hoped to launch the service in early 2024 however delays in the supply chain and seasonal conditions have meant it is now hoped the service will begin by the end of July 2024.
“Following a difficult time for the bus industry, we are delighted to be partnering with Kent County Council and Dover District Council on this exciting project” – Stagecoach South East Commercial Director, Matthew Arnold
Stagecoach South East Commercial Director, Matthew Arnold, said: “Following a difficult time for the bus industry, we are delighted to be partnering with Kent County Council and Dover District Council on this exciting project.
“As the project moves into mobilisation, we will be working closely with suppliers and stakeholders to introduce the first zero-emission buses to this part of Kent.”
“Alongside Kent Thameside’s Fastrack, Dover Fastrack will be Kent’s first zero emission bus service with a fleet of brand-new electric buses” – KCC’s Director of Highways and Transportation, Haroona Chughtai
KCC’s Director of Highways and Transportation, Haroona Chughtai, said: “Alongside Kent Thameside’s Fastrack, Dover Fastrack will be Kent’s first zero emission bus service with a fleet of brand-new electric buses.
“We are looking forward to working with Stagecoach on making sure this service as reliable, useful and convenient for residents.
“Our ambition is to make it easier for people to choose public transport for their journeys before jumping in their car and we are excited that this project is progressing.”