‘Draft guidance’ may not seem much to hang your hat on, but in relation to the Labour government’s plans for franchising, it’s a start. First impressions count, and from what I have read in the 56-page document which landed on my desk today (9 September), the runes seem to paint a picture of a government […]
Lothian’s first electric, double-deckers are now in service in Edinburgh. The Volvo BZL Electric buses are initially operating on the Service 8 and 9 routes. Each bus can accommodate more than 70 passengers and features Wi-Fi, high-back seats and USB charging points. Each vehicle also includes two wheelchair spaces. Representing an investment of more than […]
The draft guidance for franchising under the Buses Bill, expected to be delivered soon, opens franchising to all local authorities but strongly endorses Enhanced Partnerships as an alternative, and includes options to operate within the franchised area. Currently, the franchising option is only available to Mayoral Combined Authorities*. Under the government’s new proposals, franchising will […]
Parma Group is unveiling a new product to indicate when a wheel overheats. Parma’s Hot Spot Markers are small, colour-changing stickers designed to warn of a developing wheel end component failure by visually notifying the user of a hidden wheel issue that could otherwise be dangerous and costly. Key Features Once the hub has exceeded […]
McGill’s Buses has appointed Keith Rogers as Head of Compliance & Business Development. Keith brings with him over 20 years of experience in public transport, having held senior roles at FirstGroup, Tower Transit and Kelsian Group. Keith’s extensive background in bid and tender management, risk and safety frameworks, and stakeholder engagement across global markets is […]
Mistral Asset Finance has welcomed Rob Nicklin and Barry Stevens to its team. Barry Stevens has been active in the Asset Finance market for over 25 years, providing bespoke funding solutions for his customers. Barry said: “My goal and focus is to provide a seamless and transparent service built on speed of execution and professionalism, […]
In a piece on today’s Buses Bill announcement on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, CPT CEO, Graham Vidler, commented on bus franchising and the industry in general. Asked by presenter Nick Robinson whether he believes councils may do a better job of running buses than companies left to do their own thing, Graham said: “There’s […]
Legislation is being laid before Parliament today which gives all local transport authorities across England new powers to run their own bus services. Such powers had been limited to mayoral combined authorities. The government says the move gives local leaders across the country the ability to deliver services in a way that ‘suits the needs […]