Arriva invests £3.5 million improving public transport in Durham

From today (1 August) Arriva bus users in and around Durham Citywill benefit from a fleet of new and refurbished buses and servicesrepresenting an investment of some £3.5 million – andmeaning that every single vehicle operating in the area willfeature low floor, easy access technology.

The new fleet – made up of 27 brand new buses and 23refurbished vehicles – launched under the banner of 'VIVA'represents a substantial investment of £3.5 million by ArrivaNorth East, one of the region's premier transport operators. Theinvestment provides improved facilities, increased services on manyroutes and better travel information services.

The new buses will offer improved levels of comfort andaccessibility for all travellers. Each is fitted with comfortableindividual seats, additional luggage space, tinted windows and lowlevel hydraulics – which means there is no step up from the kerb,making access easier, particularly for those with limited mobility,or parents with buggies or wheelchairs.

In the next few months bus travellers will also have access to'real travel times' at bus stops, and the buses will featurestate-of-the-art technology including security cameras inside andout to ensure passenger safety and security.

In addition to the new buses, Arriva has improved the bustimetables for the area, and a full timetable to every household inthe Durham area will be distributed shortly. Travel information isalso available from Arriva's customer comment team on 08701 20 1088, from traveline on 0870 608 2 608, or via the website –www.arrivabus.co.uk

Liz Esnouf, commercial director at Arriva North Eastcommented:

This initiative shows just how hard Arriva North Eastis working to offer better quality services to ourcustomers.

We are confident that these developments will not onlydelight our existing travellers, but will also attract new bususers to the service – all of whom will benefit from the newbuses being introduced.

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