The opening date of Kent’s first zero-emission bus service has now been revealed, several months behind schedule.

It had initially been hoped the £34 million Fastrack service between the centre of Dover and Whitfield would begin in “early 2024”.

But Kent County Council explained that was hampered by delays in the supply chain and seasonal conditions.

Before that the project was expected to be up and running by last autumn but there were further problems pushing it back.

Further updates on the service will be given before it goes live this summer with KCC revealing it will be finally up and running in July.

The purpose-built, all-electric rapid bus transit system will connect Whitfield and Dover Priory railway station and the town centre, going via Burgoyne Heights and Dover Castle.

A new road just over half-a-mile long and a bridge over the A2 at Whitfield are being built for the scheme.

KCC is delivering the scheme in partnership with Dover District Council and Homes England.

A Housing Infrastructure Fund grant supports housing developments at Whitfield and the former Connaught Barracks site.

Infrastructure improvements worth £23 million continue to progress.

The new electric buses are supported by an £850,000 grant from the Department for Transport’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme.

The fleet of electric vehicles will be gradually introduced on the route by the end of the year, with alternative vehicles used in the interim.

The partnership is focused on making it easier to choose public transport on buses with zero emissions.

Upon delivery of the new electric fleet, Stagecoach will run five dedicated fully electric buses along the route providing passengers with a frequent shuttle service throughout the day and connecting with Southeastern’s High Speed services from Dover Priory.

KCC’s director of highways and transportation, Haroona Chughtai, said: “Alongside Kent Thameside’s Fastrack, Dover Fastrack will be Kent’s first zero emission bus service with a fleet of brand-new electric buses.

“We are looking forward to working with Stagecoach on making sure this service is reliable, useful and convenient for residents.

“Our ambition is to make it easier for people to choose public transport for their journeys before jumping in their car and we are excited that this project is progressing.”

Stagecoach South East commercial director, Matthew Arnold, said: “Following a difficult time for the bus industry, we are delighted to be partnering with Kent County Council and Dover District Council on this exciting project.

“As the project moves into mobilisation, we will be working closely with suppliers and stakeholders to introduce the first zero-emission buses to this part of Kent.”

DDCs strategic director for place and environment, Roger Walton, said: “Fastrack is demonstrating our commitment to improving public transport options for local people, while supporting our ambition to reduce carbon emissions.”

Kent’s first ever Fastrack service began in 2006 in ~Dartford and Gravesham although with diesel buses.

All-electric vehicles will replace them between this November and next April.

KCC signed a 15-year contract to provide this last month.