The new buses have been significantly updated. Changes include a smart air system, audio and visual location announcements, USB charging and free on-board Wi-Fi. The new low-emission vehicles are also better for the environment, in line with the council’s cleaner, greener and safer vision for the borough.
There are eight new vehicles on the road from this week on Thames Valley Buses routes, with a further seven being prepared for later this year by Carousel. The investment ensures improved comfort and accessibility for residents, visitors and all bus users. Some of the updated buses are part of new contracts re-tendered earlier this year, which boosted access to health and leisure, schools and retail, and encouraged more people to take the bus as part of a healthier lifestyle that protects the environment.
Cllr Simon Werner, Council Leader and Cabinet member for Community Partnerships, Public Protection and Maidenhead said: “I’m delighted to see the new buses in action. Passengers will benefit from the new features, like the skylight and free Wi-Fi on board. This is really exciting progress, and I hope this encourages more residents and visitors to use public transport.”
Further improvements were implemented recently to make travel more accessible including reintroducing the half hourly service around Headington Road, reinstating a bus stop near Queen Anne’s gate and increasing the frequency of some routes to accommodate increased use. The updates reflect feedback from residents, businesses and ward councillors.
Bus companies are marking Catch the Bus Month this year by offering school children free travel for a week. From Monday 8 to Friday 12 September, students aged 5-16 years old and wearing their school uniform will be able to catch the bus for free. The offer is only valid on routes operated by participating bus companies within RBWM: First Bus, Reading Buses, Thames Valley Buses, and Carousel Buses.
Notes to Editor:
• The new Thames Valley vehicles will replace the following bus routes from this week: 1, 7, 16, 227 and 228.
• Carousel Buses’ new vehicles will be used across route numbers 3/3A, 4, 9, 10/10A, 15 and 37.