Behind the scenes look at town’s state-of-the-art new bus depot

HERE is your first look behind the scenes at Warrington’s brand new and state-of-the-art bus depot.

The £10million facility is located near to The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Dallam Lane, and it replaces the now closed depot off Brian Bevan Island.

The old depot closed last week, with Warrington’s Own Buses moving operations to its shiny new home ahead of the rollout of a new fleet of electric buses early next year.

At present, the site is servicing the current fleet of 105 buses, which will be replaced with electric vehicles when they are delivered, and accommodates 230 employees.

Photos show inside the new Warrington bus depot. Picture: Mike Boden

It has taken around four years from concept to reality and opening, and everything at the depot has been built using local firms unless where unavoidable.

The employee lounge is modelled on a coffee shop and has had input from staff members who use it, through choosing furniture.

There is also a training room where future bus drivers can learn the skills needed for the job.

Photos show inside the new Warrington bus depot. Picture: Mike Boden

In the workshop area, the fleet is maintained using the latest technology in a light and spacious room, with an emphasis on safety.

This workshop can also conduct MOT tests on the town’s taxi fleet and lorries.

Outside is where the electric vehicle charges are located, featuring 3km of electrical conduits beneath the depot.

The council’s commitment to green energy will see the new buses charged by green electricity, including from the council’s solar farm in Cirencester, as part of its part to provide more cleaner sustainable travel.

Photos show inside the new Warrington bus depot. Picture: Mike Boden

Speaking to the Warrington Guardian during the visit was Cllr Cathy Mitchell, deputy leader of Warrington Borough Council.

She said: “Warrington is breaking new ground, and the project is putting the town on the map.

“It demonstrates the council’s commitment to public transport for the people who rely upon it, and we hope that more people will use it as a result.

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Photos show inside the new Warrington bus depot. Picture: Mike Boden

“It is also a commitment to our green agenda as there is a climate emergency, and we are willing to invest.”

Ben Wakerley, managing director of Warrington’s Own Buses, added: “It is not just for us to have a nice office. That is not what this project is about.

“It means we can attract more and maintain better talent as the labour market is competitive, especially with engineers.

Steve Park, the council’s director for growth, alongside Ben Wakerley and Cllr Cathy Mitchell. Picture: Mike Boden

“For customers, better maintenance means better reliability and buses turning up on time with cheaper fares. These are the ingredients you need for a successful bus company.

“The bus industry is struggling outside of Warrington, where we are doing well in comparison.

“Other bus companies are closing depots, and we are looking at providing those services that would otherwise be cancelled. We are investing and growing where others are not.”