Bus Expansion Rolls-Out

A contract for the supply of 48 'Solar Rural' Translink Ulsterbuses between Translink, local manufacturer Wrightbus and Scania has been announced.

NI Transport Minister, Conor Murphy said today: "This contract will bring new and improved buses to rural areas, which will help make travelling by public transport more accessible for those living in rural communities.

"Translink have successfully worked in partnership with local manufacturer Wrightbus, and the supplier Scania, to ensure that the new 'Solar Rural' buses are specifically designed with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair or buggy access, comfortable seating and good standing space.

"I look forward to seeing the first of the new buses in rural areas next month," he said.

The Minister also took the opportunity to view a new Ulsterbus High Capacity bus, and commented: "Translink have also worked closely with Wrightbus and the supplier Volvo and we can now mark the completion of the delivery of 61 new high capacity vehicles.

"These new buses which have emphasis on safety, comfort and the environment will be seen throughout towns and rural areas here," he explained, also re-affirming the Department's commitment to investment in public transport.

"Significant investment of almost £104m by my Department has been provided from 2004/05 to 2008/09 to purchase over 700 new buses.

"Today is further evidence that we are committed to providing a modern, sustainable, safe transportation system which benefits society, the economy and the environment, and which actively contributes to social inclusion and quality of life.

"For me a key objective in investing in public transport is to encourage commuters and other travellers to use public transport for their journeys instead of the private car," he concluded.

(BMcC/GK)