Stagecoach is investing £1million in new buses for Barrow.
Five new Optare Solo vehicles are already in service with two more to follow, all built by Switch Mobility in North Yorkshire.
They each have 29 upgraded seats made of e-leather – a sustainable, and environmentally friendly material made from recycled leather waste – and are fitted with next stop audio-visual announcements.
The buses’ Euro 6 low-noise engines are certified as low carbon and minimise emissions of harmful particulates.
Tom Waterhouse, managing director of Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire, said: “These vehicles represent a significant investment in local bus services in Barrow and underline our commitment to the town.
“We are determined to deliver a reliable, high-quality service and these buses will help us achieve that.
“They also come with low-floor access, including a dedicated space for wheelchair users, which improves the attractiveness of our services to customers travelling with shopping or those with reduced mobility.”
The new buses replace older vehicles within Stagecoach’s fleet. They will be used on town services 1,2,3 and 4 around Barrow.
Tom added: “Early feedback is very positive. The new buses are quieter, more comfortable and reduce pollution. It’s a win-win for our customers and for the environment.”
Stagecoach has a strategy to be net zero by 2035.
Its investment in Barrow follows recent purchases of new vehicles for West Cumbria and ultra-low emission double-deckers for the scenic 555 route between Lancaster, Kendal and Keswick.
The company operates an extensive network of routes in Barrow serving Walney, Ormsgill, Roose, Newbarns, Hawcoat and Furness General Hospital, and frequent buses between Barrow, Dalton and Ulverston.
Longer-distance routes provide links to Windermere, Kendal and Millom.
