Alexander Dennis to get 100 bus orders through Government scheme

Beleaguered bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) is due to receive orders for more than 100 zero-emission vehicles through a Government scheme.

Transport Scotland announced £45 million in Government cash for five bus operators, with Rock Road and Lothian Buses set to purchase from the Falkirk-based manufacturer.

Last year, the Scottish Government was forced to step in to fund a furlough scheme for staff at Alexander Dennis after the firm announced it was considering consolidating its operations at a single site in Yorkshire, putting around 400 jobs at risk.

At the time, bosses said the firm would need to see an increase in orders if it was to become sustainable in the central belt.

On Wednesday, Transport Scotland announced the results of the third round of its Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB3), with 83 buses being purchased from ADL by Rock Road and a further 40, which are collaborations between the Falkirk firm and Swedish manufacturer Volvo.

Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “This final investment of £45 million from the Scottish Government through ScotZEB3 signals our commitment to a zero-emission future for Scotland’s bus sector.

“Since 2020, we have invested over £154 million in zero-emission buses and infrastructure. This additional £45 million will support the ambition and leadership of operators that seek to decarbonise their operations as quickly as possible.

“It also helps ensure that the bus sector can access the benefits of Scotland’s investment in secure, renewable sources of electricity.

“With every £1 of public funding leveraging over £2.50 of private investment, ScotZEB3 has demonstrated that Government and industry can work together to deliver transformative climate action.

“The programme is not only reducing emissions – it’s supporting jobs and our economy, connecting communities across Scotland and improving the experience for passengers across the country.”

In total, more than 300 zero-emission buses and 295 charging points have been funded.

Coach firm Ember will be the biggest recipient, netting more than £13 million for 100 buses and 43 charging points.

Rock Road has been given £11.5 million for 93 buses and 101 chargers.

Lothian buses – which operates in Edinburgh – was given £9.6 million for 60 vehicles and 88 chargers, while around £6 million was set aside for bus giant First, and around £4.5 million for Stagecoach for 44 buses and 25 chargers.