Bristol, Bath and the West

Brand new buses for Bridgwater

Four brand new low floor buses have been introduced on Service 1 in Bridgwater.

The new buses are the result of a joint investment by First and Somerset County Council worth £500,000.

The new Euro 200 buses have bright, comfortable interiors and provide a much improved travelling environment for customers.

The low floor design makes access easier for customers with disabilities or those travelling with pushchairs. The vehicles also have a dedicated wheelchair/buggy space and a ramp for wheelchairs if required.

The new buses replace step-entrance minibuses up to 14 years old and have more spacious, comfortable interiors including bigger seats. They also have bigger, brighter destination blinds and automatic gearboxes, providing a smoother ride.

The new vehicles are also equipped with Euro 4 engines which meet all current requirements for reduced emissions.

Service 1 serves Bridgwater town, including North Sydenham , High Street, Wills Road and Rhode Lane.

To celebrate the arrival of the new buses around 7,500 leaflets will be delivered to homes aong the route with a voucher for a free off-peak adult return ticket redeemable on Service 1 only, valid until 15 August. Terms and conditions are available on our website, www.firstgroup.com.

Cllr Anthony Trollope-Bellew, Somerset County Councils Cabinet Member for Environment said, "Bridgwater deserves to have the best buses serving local people so we are able to cut down on congestion, improve access for older and disabled people and encourage more people onto the buses. This investment represents Somerset County Council's commitment to deliver just that."

Justin Davies, Managing Director of First Bristol, Somerset and Avon, said, "These brand new buses are part of our joint commitment with Somerset County Council to improving the quality and accessibility of local bus services throughout the region. The buses are bright, comfortable and accessible and we think customers will notice a real difference."