By KLTV Newsdesk –

Multi-million-pound deal signed to expand Weaver Network fleet

Hundreds of new electric buses are set to arrive in West Yorkshire after a major contract was signed to support the region’s expanding public transport plans.

A deal has been agreed to introduce 193 electric buses into the new Weaver Network, a publicly controlled transport system being developed across the region.

Backed by £100m agreement and UK manufacturing push

The contract, worth up to £100m, has been signed by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, who is supporting UK manufacturing through an order with Wrightbus, based in Northern Ireland.

The agreement will see the company supply a mix of single and double-decker electric buses, which will operate as part of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s publicly controlled fleet.

Designed for accessibility and modern travel

Each of the new buses will include two wheelchair spaces, flexible areas for pushchairs and luggage, and USB charging points for passengers.

The vehicles will also be fitted with the latest high-tech batteries, designed to improve performance compared with earlier electric bus models.

The announcement follows a separate deal earlier this month confirming that seat covers for Weaver Network buses will be produced by West Yorkshire textiles firm Camira Fabrics.

“A new era for public transport”

Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “These beautiful new buses herald the start of a new era for public transport in a better-connected West Yorkshire.

“We’re proud to be buying from a UK firm; it’s another benefit of a publicly-controlled bus network.”

“I can’t wait to see them weaving their way through our streets in less than a year’s time.”

Industry backs domestic supply chain

Christian Reynolds, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said:

“This award reflects a clear commitment to UK manufacturing and the domestic supply chain in a highly competitive global market.

“Securing this contract enables us to demonstrate the strength, quality and competitiveness of UK-built zero-emission vehicles.

“For over 80 years, Wrightbus has sustained a nationwide supply chain, and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s successful franchising model ensures this economic contribution continues driving investment, innovation and long-term industrial growth in the UK.

“We are proud to see these vehicles serving key routes in West Yorkshire.”

What is the Weaver Network?

The Weaver Network is West Yorkshire’s new integrated transport system, bringing together buses, trains, mass transit, walking, wheeling and cycling under one unified identity.

More than 150 green Weaver Network bus shelters are already being installed across the region as part of the rollout.

Phased introduction of publicly controlled services

Publicly controlled bus services are set to be introduced in stages between spring 2027 and late 2028.

Under the new model, timetables, fares and routes will be set by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, with fare revenue reinvested into improving services.

The plans follow approval of tens of millions of pounds of infrastructure investment aimed at improving roads and encouraging more sustainable travel, including walking, cycling and public transport use.