Wednesday 12 October 2016
An order has been placed for 12 new StreetVibe buses, at a cost of £1.62m, as the first part of a phased replacement programme for the existing fleet.
The order, placed with Wrightbus Limited of Northern Ireland, together with other costs associated with the tender process and provision for the acquisition of two Mercedes Sprinters (one of which has already been acquired) has been achieved within the overall authorised capital allocation of £1.9m.
The proposed new vehicle is the narrowest in its class and will have a maximum seated capacity of 31 passengers and an overall maximum capacity of 43 passengers. It also complies with all of the latest EU emissions standards, is more fuel efficient than the current fleet, is fully accessible (and compliant with the UK Disability Discrimination Act) and will offer modern technology in terms of passenger information systems, Wi-Fi access and USB charging points.
Passenger comfort will also improve with the provision of high-back seats in E-Leather, increased internal head room and use of the latest internal LED lighting.
Accordingly, the new vehicles will present a more efficient, attractive, comfortable, and convenient service for the travelling public.
Delivery of the first of the new buses is expected in April 2017.