First E200s hail total fleet overhaul for Blackpool

The first 18 Enviro200 single-decks, in service this week for Blackpool Transport, hail its £22m plan to replace the entire 140-vehicle fleet and create one of the UK’s most advanced line-ups of Euro VI buses.

Like the 55 ADL Enviro400 City double decks that preceded them, the new single-decks are bristling with extras for passengers, including leather-look seats and wifi. The 9.7m, 34-seat Enviro200s will operate on Routes 3 and 4 providing services for local schools, Blackpool and Fylde College (Bispham), Whitegate Drive Health Centre and customers travelling to and from Cleveleys, Marton and Mereside.

In parallel with the Enviro400 City double decks operating on Blackpool’s famous Palladium routes, the new single decks have USB charging points, audio and visual announcement systems, mobile phone holders, stop buttons at every seat, infotainment screens, e-leather seats and wood-effect flooring.

Jane Cole, Managing Director at Blackpool Transport, said: “These new single decks mark another stage in our journey towards a completely revamped fleet. Our aim is to make the customer experience second to none, both for locals and the many visitors who form part of the 15 million people we carry every year.”

James Carney, Financial and Commercial Director at Blackpool Transport added: “We are striving to deliver an ambitious business plan that fulfils our shareholder’s strategy to have a world-class public transport service that is multi-modal, modern and efficient because these are vital ingredients in successful economic development.

“Much of what has been achieved is thanks to the terrific partnership we have formed with Alexander Dennis Ltd, working together to design and engineer the vehicles of tomorrow.”

Sally Shaw, People and Stakeholders Director at Blackpool Transport commented: “Our rejuvenated transport system is already encouraging more visitors and inward investment. This consistent policy of upgrading the fleet makes a statement about the drive and ambition of Blackpool itself.”

Richard Matthews, ADL’s Sales Director Retail Bus and Coach, said: “Blackpool continues to throw down the gauntlet to transport authorities far and wide. They have in the past two years raised the bar in terms of their bus fleet and remain committed to their radical, five-year vehicle replacement programme.”