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PASSENGER-FRIENDLY BUSES
HITRANS, the strategic transport partnership
for the Highlands and Islands, is investing more than �800,000 on
modern low-floor buses, which are wheelchair accessible and provide the
general public with much easier access. HITRANS is working in partnership
with bus companies to contribute towards the cost of the new buses, using
funds awarded by The Scottish Executive for public transport improvements.
Since April 2003, HITRANS has received �2.7 million from the Executive to
improve public transport in its area.
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Some Of the New Buses |
Chairman Councillor Charlie King, Mallaig,
said: �Public transport plays a crucial role in the life of many rural
communities in the Highlands and Islands so we are eager to provide
not only a more integrated system but one that is accessible to as many
people as possible. We are reinforcing this commitment through our
partnership with bus companies from as far afield as Shetland in the north
to Argyll and Bute in the south.� |
Already in operation are eight buses,
namely:-
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A new low floor wheelchair accessible VDL
operated by Rapson�s Coaches on the service between
Inverness and Inverness Airport.
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A new low floor wheelchair accessible
Optare Solo operated by Rapsons between Thurso and Scrabster,
connecting with the Orkney ferry.
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A new low floor wheelchair accessible
Dennis Dart operated by Deveron Coaches on the Buckie to Keith service.
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A new low floor wheelchair accessible
Optare Solo operated by The Moray Council on the Speyside Community Bus
Service in Aberlour and the surrounding rural area.
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4 new low floor wheelchair accessible
Optare Solos operated by Stagecoach Bluebird on the service between
Forres, Elgin and Dufftown/Aberlour.
HITRANS has also agreed to contribute
towards the costs of low floor buses operating between Inverness �
Durness; at Uig Pier, Skye; three buses to operate in Argyll and Bute and
a service between Lerwick and the northern islands on Shetland. |