Work starts to electrify First’s Hoeford depot

Ground-breaking work is underway to transform First Solent’s Hoeford depot in Fareham.

The site is being made ready to operate 62 new electric single-deckers from March 2024 across Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport. The electric buses, the first of their type in the area, will replace part of First Bus South’s current diesel fleet

The project has been made possible through a successful Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) fund application by Hampshire County Council and Portsmouth City Council, The bid secured £12.7m ZEBRA funding from the DfT, which was boosted with around £15.9m from First Bus South, which operates First Solent.

“This is just the start, and there are exciting times ahead for public transport across the Solent area” – Simon Goff, First Bus South Managing Director

Simon Goff, First Bus South Managing Director, said: “Bringing electric buses to Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport is a vital project that will not only improve travel for our customers, but marks a major transformation of our Hoeford depot and its functions.

“This is just the start, and there are exciting times ahead for public transport across the Solent area. I am proud to be part of this extremely important partnership with Hampshire County Council and Portsmouth City Council, as we support their plans for better air quality and cleaner, greener travel.”

In addition to the Hoeford depot, First Bus South is planning to introduce a new depot in Hilsea, which when complete, will have the capacity to operate an electric fleet of up to 90 vehicles.