The number of buses serving Galway City Routes will almost double by the start of 2027, Fianna Fáil Galway West TD John Connolly has learned.
The National Transport Authority has confirmed that the Bus Éireann fleet in the city will increase to at least 60 double-deck electric buses by early 2027, representing “an increase in fleet size of c42% compared to today”.
It was also confirmed to Dep Connolly that “further increases in the fleet size are planned” to support the NTA’s redesigned bus network for the City. This is intended to be implemented as part of the BusConnects Galway Network Redesign project and to take full effect in 2028.
Deputy Connolly claimed that this will be a hugely positive development for Galway public transport users.
“A 42% increase in the bus fleet represents a major step forward in delivering a modern, high?capacity Bus network. This level of investment will hopefully improve reliability, frequency, comfort and accessibility for commuters, residents, and visitors alike. It marks some progress in building a less congested and better-connected Galway.”
The news follows Dep Connolly’s statement in the Dáil in February, where he called on Bus Éireann to increase the fleet serving the city on which Bus Éireann holds the route licences.
In March, the NTA received planning permission from Galway City Council for charging infrastructure. This is expected to be in place before the end of this year. Staff training and limited operation of the new double-deck battery-electric buses will begin over the next few months to prepare for the “wider rollout of these zero-emission buses from early 2027”.
“Greater number of buses, a redesigned route to reflect the realities of Galway City today, and an all-electric fleet are great news both for commuters and the environment,” said Dep Connolly. “I welcome this confirmation from the NTA and look forward to seeing the new all-electric buses come into operation across the next 12 months.”
