The £2.3m order with the Rochdale manufacturer will see 17 Strata Plus buses delivered
First is buying locally as it begins to build preparations for running bus services in Rochdale as part of Transport for Greater Manchester’s new Bee Network from March next year. The operator, together with Transport for Greater Manchester, has selected Rochdale-based Mellor to supply it with 17 Strata Plus small buses.
Mike Watson, the First Bus Manchester Director leading the mobilisation of its plans for Rochdale, said: “We’re delighted to announce this order with Mellor and look forward to seeing the first vehicles coming off the production line. This also supports high-skilled jobs locally and regionally. As we begin to invest in the Rochdale area First Bus Manchester is determined to help build the economy and link key communities.”
The Strata Plus features include audio visual next stop technology, USB charging points and WiFi connectivity. The order represents a total investment of over £2.3m through the TfGM franchising process.
UK Sales Director for Mellor Richard Matthews commented: “Mellor’s unwavering commitment to engineering excellence, sustainability and accessibility positions us as a perfect fit for driving forward Greater Manchester’s Bus Strategy. Not only are we proud to be serving our local community with our reliable, low-emission buses, but we are delighted to see investment from our own city region back into the local area.
“We do believe that the North West, with its manufacturing heritage and tech innovation sectors, has the potential to be a hub for sustainable transport and specialist vehicle technology.”
Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester Vernon Everitt said he was very pleased that First has chosen to work with a local manufacturer. “This investment in more buses equipped with audio-visual announcements and WiFi connectivity is just another demonstration of how committed we are to providing a truly integrated and accessible public transport network for the people of Greater Manchester,” he added.
