Rebuilding Britain means modernising our transport infrastructure and a further 17 electric buses are coming to Reading thanks to a £3 million grant announced by the Labour Government on 12 March 2026.
The latest funding, secured by our Labour run council along with Reading Buses, will bring the total number of electric double deckers in the town to 49.
Reading Buses already has one of the most eco-friendly fleets in the country and the addition of another 17 electric buses will further support the Council’s aims of encouraging public transport use, reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality for the health of Reading residents.
The £3m government grant from the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) 2 project will expand the electric bus network to the emerald 5 route, which runs between the town centre and Northumberland Avenue, and emerald 6 which serves Whitley Wood, in summer 2027. Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said;
“Not only do these zero-emission buses provide a smooth and quiet journey, they also transport thousands of people around Reading every day without emitting any harmful, polluting fumes.”
Labour is creating unified and integrated transport systems, allowing for more seamless journeys and breaking down barriers to opportunity in Reading.