The 20th anniversary of Liverpool Coach Station has been marked by the visit of a preserved National Express-liveried coach from the 1970s. Driving the Duple-bodied Leyland Leopard, which was parked next to a current Caetano Levante Volvo, was former National Express driver Gerard Butler who drove services to Liverpool in the days before the modern station existed. He was accompanied by fellow members of the Ribble Vehicle Preservation Trust who provided the historic coach.
Liverpool Coach Station Manager John Lord said: “20 years ago I remember working as a junior member of staff and I can’t believe how much things have changed. I feel so proud to see how the service has been refined over the years to make travel as comfortable as possible for our passengers.”
Before the current facility opened, passengers had to board services at a stop known as the Hut on the Hill on Brownlow Hill. When the purpose built station opened in 1994 it brought with it the benefits of waiting rooms, multiple coach bays, seating, toilets and refreshments. Then it was possible to reach 35 destinations. Now it’s 122.
In 1994 an off-peak single ticket from Liverpool to London would cost £21.50 whereas current fares start from £5 when booked in advance. Customers can now book online using a smartphone, use the Coach Tracker app to track their service and text the company feedback about their journey.
