Greater Glasgow

Faster and greener bus travel for Cumbernauld

Faster and greener journeys are on the cards for bus passengers in Cumbernauld thanks to investment of £2 million from bus operator, First in Glasgow.

First has invested in 16 new Wright Gemini double-decker vehicles that will operate on the frequent X4/X5 express services from Cumbernauld to Glasgow city centre, providing passengers with a smoother, quicker and more environmentally-friendly bus journey.

The buses feature the latest technology and modern fuel efficient engines, ensuring that it's easier than ever for passengers to sit back, relax and let First do the driving.

Cumbernauld and Kilsyth MSP Cathie Craigie and Central Scotland Region MSP Jamie Hepburn joined First's Commercial Director, Alex Shearer to check out the new vehicles before they went out on the road.

Cathie said: "I very much welcome the £2 million investment from First in Glasgow and I am sure those who regularly use First services will notice the difference with a more comfortable journey.

"What may not be so apparent to the travelling public is that the buses are more fuel efficient and include the latest technology - all this combined should deliver a better service to the public."

Jamie added: "One of the things people tell me that they want in public transport is clean and efficient vehicles. The investment being made by First in their new buses is therefore very welcome in that regard.

"That these new buses are also more environmentally-friendly is also a welcome boost, as we are constantly looking for ways to ensure a reduction in carbon emissions and for improved environmental performance in public transport. I hope that this leads to an improved experience for all those who use First buses locally."

First's Alex Shearer concluded: "These fantastic vehicles represent significant investment and underline our commitment to providing a quality bus service. I am delighted they will be operating on the Cumbernauld express services, delivering the very best the bus industry has to offer for local residents.

"The buses are a terrific example of how we are transforming travel across the Greater Glasgow area and beyond and exemplify everything thats positive about leaving your car behind and catching the bus: you get where you want to go quickly, easily, in comfort " and all at a great value cost.

"Our aim is to deliver the best service we possibly can for our passengers and with the introduction of these new buses on the X4/X5 route, we are definitely achieving that for the people of Cumbernauld."

Unlimited weekly travel is available on the X4/X5 express services for just £12 with the Cumbernauld XCard. Passengers can also use their XCard to connect with a number of First's high-frequency services within the city centre, improving access to work, education and leisure opportunities.

With a number of convenient interchange points, passengers will be able to catch buses every 5 to 10 minutes to and from such places as Glasgow Cross/Argyle Street (services 240,255,263,267), Union Street/Hope Street (services 12,38,45,56) and Charing Cross/Glasgow University (services 11,42/42A/44/44A,747).