First is celebrating the first anniversary of running bus services from Rusholme since the acquisition of Finglands in February 2014.
The celebration was marked on February 16, with local Rusholme Councillors and Councillor Andrew Fender, Chairman of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee.
Customer journeys continue to grow from under 50,000 per week in 2014 to over 100,000 per week in 2015. First said the growth is the result of a number of initiatives including the addition of 45 new low emission buses.
New links have also been created for customers with the introduction of the cross-city 42 service between East Didsbury & Crumpsall via Wilmslow Road, Oxford Road, Manchester City Centre and Cheetham Hill. The 42 links the North Manchester General Hospital with Hospitals and Universities on Oxford Road, improving the daily journeys of many Manchester people.
In spring, WiFi will be introduced on First buses in Manchester as well as real time information for customers.
Teresa Broxton, Managing Director of First in Manchester, said: “In the last 12 months great value fares, new connections and high quality bus services have led to impressive customer growth. I’m sure our continued focus on value for money and improving quality of service for customers will help attract even more people to use First buses.”
Cllr Andrew Fender said: “It’s good to see the positive steps First has taken in the last year to transform the services in this area. I look forward to seeing this commitment to customer service continue to result in benefits for passengers.”
