SALISBURY is stepping into a cleaner future as a fleet of brand-new electric buses arrives in the city with residents invited to get a first look this week.

Representatives from Salisbury Reds and Wiltshire Council will gather in Market Place alongside schoolchildren and stakeholders to showcase the new zero-emission vehicles.

The £15 million investment – supported by government funding – will see 30 electric buses introduced across the city and surrounding areas, including double deckers, single deckers and vehicles for the popular Stonehenge Tour.

Built in the UK by manufacturers Wrightbus and Alexander Dennis, the buses represent a major shift in how people travel around the city.

During the event, Salisbury Reds will announce the winners of its schools poetry competition, and some of them will be on display.

The operator will also unveil the winning bus rear which has been designed by a ‘very talented young artist’.

(Picture: Salisbury Reds)

Managing director of Salisbury Reds Ed Wills said: “Salisbury Reds and Wiltshire Council have, together, made a significant investment in our new zero emission electric buses for Salisbury and the surrounding areas.

“I am delighted that Salisbury is at the forefront of the nation’s sustainable transport. Buses are the perfect solution to improving air quality, and I’d urge people living here and visiting to use these new vehicles.

“This joint investment between DfT, Salisbury Reds and Wiltshire Council will ensure greener, better, journeys for our customers – and have a significant impact Salisbury’s overall carbon emissions.”

Wiltshire Council cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith described the launch as a milestone moment for the city.

He said: “It’s a real pleasure to see Salisbury’s new electric buses arrive and to celebrate what has been achieved through strong partnership working.

“These buses will make a genuine difference – improving air quality, reducing noise in the city centre and providing a more comfortable, accessible and reliable service for passengers.”

The buses will go on public display in Market Place on March 20, with visitors able to step aboard and speak to those behind the project.

To mark the occasion, a celebratory event will follow – complete with a live performance from ELO Again – signalling not just a transport upgrade, but a cultural moment for a city embracing a greener future.