Wales’ Welcome Ticket free public transport scheme has come to an end. The programme was launched in March 2022 as part of a package of support measures to help Ukrainians, Afghans and other refugees to integrate more effectively in Welsh life. Over the last two years, the Welsh government estimates that around one million journeys […]
Bus and coach electric repower specialist Equipmake has upgraded 12 of First York’s Optare Versas with its electric drivetrain. The electric buses now feature Equipmake’s Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, which in this specification, features a 274kWh capacity battery, providing a range of 150 miles in all UK weather conditions. The delivery follows on from a […]
First Bus is now an accredited real Living Wage (RLW) employer (from 1 April 2024). Its 1,300 staff across the UK have benefited from a pay rise in line with the new commitment, says First Bus. The move brings every employee to at least £12 per hour in pay rates. These colleagues are spread across […]
Troubled Belgian manufacturer Van Hool is taking another week to secure its future. Van Hool says it remains steadfast in its pursuit of a sustainable future, despite recent challenges. Within the proceedings pending before the Mechelen Enterprise Court, Van Hool will take one extra week to safeguard the possibility of a quick restart. The company […]
Parksafe Group has entered into a fleet technology partnership with Queclink Wireless Solutions to develop telematics and connectivity systems. Under the hardware agreement, Queclink will become a primary supplier of IoT products and solutions to the company, across an extensive range of dash cameras, tracking devices and WiFi routers. “We needed a partner that shared […]
A new operator has started in the north east. With an O licence for three vehicles, two registered at Stanley Travels’ yard and one in Gateshead, Northstar started work on 29 March. Its first job was a Tyne & Wear Metro Replacement service in operation between Heworth and South Gosforth, while track junction renewal work […]
Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has welcomed David Conway as its new Head of Operations. Nottinghamshire born David joins NCT from Cardiff Bus, where he was Service Delivery Director for three-and-a-half years, guiding the business out of the pandemic and introducing 55 electric buses into service in the Welsh capital. Before joining Cardiff Bus, David joined […]
A call has been made in London for bus driver fatigue to be taken more seriously. The London Assembly Transport Committee has today called for TfL and bus operators to change the culture around self-reporting and ensure that fatigue is taken seriously, to protect drivers and customers. The Committee carried out an investigation on the […]