Greater Glasgow

New vehicles welcomed to South Lanarkshire

The quality of bus travel in South Lanarkshire has been significantly boosted with the introduction of new accessible and environmentally-friendly 'midi-buses' on local services courtesy of bus operator, First in Glasgow.

A total of 16 Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 buses are now operating across Lanarkshire - representing investment of more than £1.7 million - with a number of them deployed on the service 226 route between Hillhouse, Hamilton town centre and Fairhill.

The buses are among the most environmentally-friendly on the road, featuring the latest Euro IV engines, improved fuel efficiency and a further reduction in the already low levels of exhaust emissions.

The stylish vehicles also provide low-floor access and a modern and spacious interior layout that is suitable for all passengers including those in wheelchairs or those travelling with buggies.

Deputy Chair of South Lanarkshire Council's Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor John Murray, joined First in Glasgow at Chatelherault Country Park to check out the new vehicles. He said: "It's great to be here in this beautiful park to see First's continued investment in the South Lanarkshire area first-hand. Not only am I delighted that our residents have the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of these new buses but their 'green' credentials are good news for our local environment. I'm sure the vehicles will prove popular in our local communities and I look forward to seeing further investment in the public transport network in South Lanarkshire in the future."

First's Service Delivery Manager, Gerry Irvine, added: "We are delighted with the new Enviro 200 buses, which are the first of their kind in our Glasgow fleet. These buses are a prime example of how we are transforming travel across our operating network and genuinely making a difference for our customers.

"These vehicles provide a safe and comfortable mode of transport that offers some of the best interior accommodation we have available, while minimising the impact on the external environment, and that is what a modern bus fleet is all about. And the low-floor access makes life much easier for those who may find it difficult to get around.

"The new buses are an important addition to our fleet and I hope as many people as possible take the opportunity to give them a try."