The Government of Jersey has awarded a new 10-year contract to LibertyBus, part of Tower Transit Group, following a two-stage tender process. The Government says the contract reflects its commitment to providing sustainable, high-quality public transport for Islanders and visitors.
LibertyBus, the current operator of bus services in Jersey, was selected for offering best value for money and a range of service improvements that align with the Island’s environmental goals.
Highlights of the contract include the introduction of 22 ultra-low emission, high-capacity buses which will replace older vehicles within the first 12 months of the agreement. The remaining fleet will undergo refurbishment in the early stages of the contract, ensuring improved comfort and reliability.
Over the life of the contract, LibertyBus has also committed to a complete fleet renewal in alignment with the Government of Jersey’s carbon-neutral strategy, and to further enhance services, LibertyBus says it will exceed the number of routes and service frequencies required by the tender, whilst to improve the customer experience, new self-service ticketing machines will be installed at Liberation Station, while faster ticketing systems will be rolled out across the bus fleet, ensuring quicker and more efficient boarding for passengers.
Constable Andy Jehan, the island’s Minister for Infrastructure, said: “This new contract reflects the Government’s commitment to improving public transport while supporting our carbon-neutral ambitions. We are pleased to continue our partnership with LibertyBus and look forward to seeing the positive impact of the new buses and better services for Islanders.”
Managing Director of Tower Transit Group Samuel Ribeiro commented: “We are delighted to have renewed the partnership with the Government of Jersey to continue to provide exceptional bus services for the next 10 years. This agreement will see continued investment in fleet replacement, including zero-emission vehicles. Our aim is to build on the network of services and support the GoJ’s plans to deliver increased modal shift over the next decade.”
CEO & Managing Director of Kelsian Group, which owns Tower Transit, added: “The UK sees Jersey as a model case for successful bus franchising, and we are proud to have contributed to its ongoing success. We will continue to utilise our leading experience in zero-emission solutions to deliver a world class transport experience, tailored to the Jersey community.”
