The Scottish Greens have called on Ministers to accelerate the development of the Green Bus Fund after new research revealed it will take more than 70 years to 'green' the entire fleet.

With only 362 buses out of a 4,300-strong fleet so far having been 'greened', transport spokesperson John Finnie MSP is urging the Scottish Government to come up with proposals "which encourage operators and manufacturers to accelerate investment in low-carbon vehicles".

The call follows recent analysis by the Greens, which shows 25.6% of the Government's proposed capital spending is on low-carbon infrastructure, against expert recommendations of 70% to limit climate change.

-- Advertisement --

Mr Finnie is urging Ministers to accelerate investment in buses with;

• Greater focus on infrastructure such as charging points as the Green Bus Fund currently assists the purchase of new vehicles but offers no support for infrastructure

• A faster speed of roll-out rather than 76 years at the current rate

• A proper strategy to build on the fund so there is a clear goal of greening the entire fleet and reversing the decline in bus patronage

• Sufficient resources to enable the Green Bus Fund to support the roll-out of Low Emissions Zones to protect public health in town and city centres

John Finnie MSP said: "Uptake of the Scottish Government's Green Bus Fund is low and at the current rate it would take more than 70 years to green the entire fleet.

"The government need to come forward with proposals which encourage operators and manufacturers to accelerate investment in low-carbon vehicles. There must also be consideration given to the infrastructure, such as charging points, which supports this investment.

"By accelerating the Green Bus Fund, Scottish Ministers can speed up our journey towards a public transport system fit for purpose."

(LM/CD)