The distinctively branded double deckers are the first arrivals of a new fleet of buses being rolled out under the contract as part of a £3 million investment by Bluestar in the award-winning service.
three of the new buses are seen here after delivery at the new uni-link parking premises at Bluestar HQ in Eastleigh
Each new bus – manufactured by Scania - features an environmentally friendly “Euro 4” engine, a fully accessible entrance with no steps, an automated wheelchair ramp and dual door for fast entry and exit for customers, as well as a posh designer interior by London-based Best Impressions. All five buses will travel along the popular and growing uni-link U1 route between Southampton Airport and the city centre. They will be joined by four more double deck and nine single deck additions to the fleet over the next few months – that’s an initial investment in the service of 18 brand new vehicles by Bluestar.
The introduction of the new vehicles coincides with the University’s Freshers’ Week at the start of the new student year which sees over 5000 new students arrive for the start of their studies in Southampton.
George Fair, uni-link’s Operations Manager, is enthusiastic on what the new buses will mean to passengers: “We are delighted to introduce these new buses to the University’s staff and students and to the Southampton travelling public. These new buses are a quantum leap forward and will provide all uni-link passengers with an even higher-quality service.”
Simon Higman, University of Southampton’s Chief Operating Officer, (left) is seen with uni-link Operations Manager George Fair greeting one of the new buses into service at the University’s Highfield Interchange.