Arriva NE’s Sapphire City upgrade for Newcastle to Newbiggin

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Sporting the new-style Sapphire branding, the 12 ADL Enviro400 Citys represent an investment of £2.9m

Arriva North East has launched a dozen new ADL Enviro400 Citys on the X21 and X22 services between Newcastle and Ashington. The vehicles feature striking new livery, comfortable E-Leather-covered seating, and the latest in journey planning technology. There are many great features onboard too, including USB charging ports, free WiFi and audio-visual next-stop announcements.

The buses were unveiled at Ashington Leisure Centre by local MP Ian Lavery. There was also an information stand on Station Road, Ashington where Arriva staff were on hand to answer any questions from the public as well as lots of giveaways.

Ashington is the first area in North East to operate the brand new premium buses which represent an investment of £2.9m.

Nick Knox, Area Managing Director for Arriva North East, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the new and improved Sapphire brand to Newcastle and Ashington which we have now invested a further £2.9m in. These brand new buses will offer customers a new and improved experience, we’re confident that customers will be delighted with the new enhancements.”

The Sapphire X21 X22 services operate up to every 10 minutes to Newbiggin and Ashington, via Newcastle upon Tyne.