Translink Purchases 40 New Buses

Over 40 new double decker buses have been purchased by Translink in an order worth more than £9m, it has been announced.

The first of the 42 Translink Metro buses are due to enter passenger service on 1 July. The remainder will arrive over the summer, with all in service from 1 September.

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said: "My Department has secured funding from the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme which has helped Translink to purchase these new buses. This investment in the fleet ensures that the public will continue to enjoy a modern, attractive transport option and travel more sustainably.

"The new buses will operate on some of the busiest routes across the city, Ormeau Road, Newtownards Road, Malone and City Express. In addition, five of the vehicles will serve the Park and Ride facility at Dundonald when it opens towards the end of the year. The new vehicles will be in line with Translink's latest fleet standards, i.e. high-back, high specification seats, wheelchair space and space for two buggies, fully accessible and have CCTV."

Gordon Milligan, Translink Interim Group Chief Executive said: "These new vehicles will allow us to maintain high levels of comfort and quality for our customers. The new attractive all over magenta livery gives the fleet a refreshed impactful image that we hope will get people talking about their local bus services, and in turn help encourage more people get on board.

"In addition, we believe these new buses will be amongst the first vehicles in Northern Ireland to meet the latest Euro VI emission standards making them some of the most fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly buses in the region. With much lower air quality emissions this is good news for Belfast helping us to provide a healthier environment for all."

(IT/JP)