First Bus reports that it has completed a £750,000 investment programme at its Rochdale depot in Greater Manchester, which operates 30 routes for Transport for Greater Manchester’s Bee Network in the Rochdale and Bury area using a fleet of over 65 buses. The focus of the improvements has been enhanced engineering facilities, including a new double height workshop bay for vehicle repair and maintenance.
The new building also incorporates two pits for dealing with single-deck buses and an external bay with lifting gear to elevate vehicles for easier access. Engineering Manager Aaron Taylor said: “This allows us to take a proactive approach to planned maintenance and fleet improvement. The new facilities will also enable us to introduce new preventive maintenance processes to provide the best possible service to our customers and the community.
“This significant investment provides a springboard for our people to strive to be the best and achieve performance targets for the depot.”
Two apprentices will also soon be joining the engineering team as the depot expands its technicians and skills base.
General Manager Paul Townley added: “This new depot is creating high-skilled, well paid jobs locally and regionally and as we continue to invest in the Rochdale area, First Bus is determined to help build the economy and link key communities as we support the Bee Network.”
