Passengers traveling on Salisbury Reds’ activ8 route between Salisbury and Andover are benefiting from the introduction of new buses.
The operator has unveiled three new ADL Enviro400 double-deckers as part of its investment in the region’s sustainable transport.
Managing director Andrew Wickham said: “These past few months have been particularly challenging, and our team of key workers has been working incredibly hard transporting those making essential journeys throughout the coronavirus crisis.
“We made this investment prior to lockdown, and we are pleased to be introducing the buses to our customers across Wiltshire and Hampshire now. One positive to come from the past three months, is that the area’s congestion has greatly reduced.
“This is a chance for us to build on that. We want to encourage local people to leave their cars at home and travel on sustainable transport once the Government eases lockdown and we return to something close to normality.
“These double-decker buses represent more than £500k investment and have the potential to take a number of cars off the road – even whilst social distancing measures are in place. Not only do they offer additional comfort for our passengers – with comfy ‘coach’ style seats, tables on the upper deck, and on-board technology like USB charging points and contactless payment facilities – they are greener than ever.
“They also boast an eye-catching new turquoise livery, giving them a distinct look for this popular route.
“Our team is very much looking forward to a time when these buses are full of passengers working, shopping and enjoying social occasions. Until then, we will enjoy showing them off to those making essential journeys across the region.”
