23 new Enviro 200 single deckers have been introduced to Hastings’ Arrows services, five months earlier than anticipated due to the Stagecoach’s role in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. They were launched by Phil Medlicott, MD for Stagecoach in East Kent & East Sussex with colleagues dressed in costumes similar to those found on the Bayeux tapestry – which is the new fleet’s livery theme.
Stagecoach is managing two depots in London during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, with 1100 vehicles in operation during the events, many buses and staff from depots across the UK, including the 23 new Enviro 200s, will be seconded to London during the games and will re-enter local service in September.
Medlicott said: “We are delighted to introduce the buses to customers ahead of schedule. The E200s have easier access for wheelchair users and people travelling with buggies, and are more environmentally friendly with low emission engines to reduce pollution.”
The £3m investment follows the introduction of 11 new double deckers, worth £1.6m in January, some of which are based at the Hastings depot and are used on the Wave 99 service between Hastings and Eastbourne.
The Hastings bus depot operates a fleet of 72 single and double deck buses with a team of 200 drivers, engineering and support personnel.
