Go-Ahead mobilises 15-year Fastrack contract

The Go-Ahead Group has successfully mobilised operations on the Fastrack network across North Kent under a 15-year contract in an agreement with Kent County Council that is worth £110 million.

Operations will commence with an interim diesel fleet before transitioning to a fleet that will be fully electric and in operation by Spring 2025. 28 zero-emission ‘tram-like’ buses will take to the streets of Kent, with on-street charging infrastructure to provide power to buses through the day.

The Fastrack network provides customers with a frequent ‘turn up and go’ service, connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare and shopping in an area of rapid economic growth which is undergoing significant regeneration.

With more than 2.5 million trips annually, reliable and punctual journeys are vital. The routes have dedicated traffic free lanes to get customers where they want, minimising delays.

Shane Hymer, Fastrack Development Manager, Kent County Council said: "It's been a breath of fresh air working with Go-Ahead on delivering the next generation of Fastrack. Putting the customer first has been our shared ambition on this journey and so much has been achieved in a relative short space of time. This new operational focus and extended service is just the first step of the new look Fastrack and we remain on course to deliver the full Electric Fastrack network in 2025, bringing our full investment to life".

Martin Dean, Managing Director for UK Regional Bus, Go-Ahead Group said: “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Kent County Council to manage and operate the Fastrack network. We’re ready to make a difference for the customers and communities who will rely on our services and look forward to introducing a transformational zero-emission fleet with all new buses set to be operational by Spring 2025, benefitting our customers and the environment”.