We invested £465,000 of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to support Cuckmere Buses and Wealdlink to introduce electric buses and EV charging infrastructure.
The project protected essential community transport services, while accelerating the transition to low‑carbon travel, delivering immediate benefits for rural communities, vulnerable residents and the local environment.
Community transport schemes provide accessible and flexible travel for people who struggle to use conventional public transport, particularly in rural areas, where commercial services can be limited. Often delivered by volunteers, charities or social enterprises, these services are essential for older people, disabled residents and those without access to a car.
Cuckmere Buses and Wealdlink provide reliable, accessible services and aim to maintain modern fleets. However, replacing older vehicles can place significant financial pressure on smaller providers, while ageing vehicles also have higher maintenance costs and contribute to increased carbon emissions.
Rising fuel costs and the need to reduce transport-related emissions have created additional challenges for the long-term sustainability of these services. Although electric minibuses offer a cleaner alternative, their higher upfront costs can be difficult for community operators to meet.
The project was therefore established to provide targeted investment, helping these providers transition to low-carbon vehicles, while supporting our wider climate change, accessibility and inclusion ambitions.
The project aimed to safeguard essential community transport while taking practical climate action. Objectives included reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, lowering operating costs and enhancing the passenger experience.
Residents reliant on community transport, particularly vulnerable and isolated people, are the main beneficiaries.
Wider communities benefit from quieter, cleaner vehicles and a more resilient transport network, supporting the our priorities for climate action, inclusion and sustainable development.
The project was delivered through three key phases, beginning with a needs assessment and engagement with Cuckmere Buses and Wealdlink. This explored their different service models, routes and operational challenges, ensuring the investment reflected genuine community needs.
The second phase followed Cabinet approval in October 2025, when £465,000 of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding was allocated. Of this, £400,000 funded three electric buses, while £65,000 supported EV charging infrastructure.
The final phase focuses on implementation and integration, with the electric buses being incorporated into live service planning. Both vehicles are ordered and charging infrastructure is being installed at the two depots.
Challenges included vehicle lead-in times and installing suitable charging infrastructure in rural locations. These were addressed through early planning, flexible timescales and close partnership working. Operator engagement helped shape vehicle specifications and charging arrangements.
It demonstrates how CIL funding can support low-carbon transport while delivering climate and inclusion benefits.
The project will deliver environmental, social and operational benefits. Once operational, the electric buses will reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality and lower fuel and maintenance costs for community transport providers. Passengers will benefit from quieter, cleaner and more comfortable journeys.
The investment will strengthen the resilience of community transport, helping to manage costs while meeting demand. It also provides a model for future fleet electrification.