First look at new West Yorkshire buses taking shape at Wrightbus in Ballymena

Jason Lorimer, Manufacturing Director (left), and John McLeister, MD Sales, UK and Ireland, with Tracy Brabin.

Monday 05 October 2026

A new fleet of almost 200 zero-emission buses destined for West Yorkshire is beginning to take shape at Wrightbus in Ballymena, ahead of a major overhaul of the region’s public transport network.

The first buses were viewed on the production line by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin during a visit to the Ballymena factory, where the vehicles are being assembled before entering service from spring 2027.

Almost 200 buses being built in Ballymena

Wrightbus secured the contract to manufacture almost 200 buses in May following a competitive tendering process.

The vehicles will become part of West Yorkshire’s new Weaver Network as the region moves to a franchised bus system, under which the West Yorkshire Combined Authority will set fares and routes and hold operators to account for services.

Ms Brabin said:

“Seeing the new buses rolling through the production line is another exciting step on our journey to franchising, before they’re rolling through our cities, towns and countryside.

“I can’t wait to see these new buses on our streets as part of a fully integrated transport network under Weaver, providing a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”

New features for passengers

The new buses will include USB charging and air conditioning, along with increased space for wheelchair users and flexible areas for pushchairs and luggage.

Christian Reynolds, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said:

“We’re proud to be building the new Weaver Network buses in Northern Ireland and to have welcomed the Mayor to see the fleet in-build process.

“These buses will play an important role in the future of public transport across West Yorkshire, and we’re working closely with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to make sure they deliver the quality, comfort and accessibility passengers expect.”

Rollout begins in spring 2027

The West Yorkshire Mayor took the decision in 2024 to introduce bus franchising, bringing responsibility for routes, fares and service standards under greater public control.

The Ballymena-built vehicles are due to begin appearing on West Yorkshire roads from spring 2027 as the Weaver Network comes into effect, marking the next stage for a major contract being delivered from Wrightbus’s Northern Ireland manufacturing base.