Stagecoach Bluebird has invested £2.2 million in a fleet of new vehicles. These ‘green’ vehicles will be a major boost for public transport in the Buchan area.

The 17 new Volvo B7 Interurban coaches will operate on the new distinctively branded “Buchan Link", on services 260/263 and 267/268 between Peterhead and Fraserburgh to Aberdeen. Incorporating the latest design features for passengers, the new vehicles will benefit from an additional investment of £40,000 ensuring CCTV is fitted on all buses, playing a major role in keeping passengers and drivers secure in addition to deterring vandalism.

These new vehicles have Euro 3 engines, allowing low pollutant, minimum emissions, demonstrating a commitment by Stagecoach to sustainability and better air quality within the Buchan area.

Robert Andrew, Deputy Managing Director of Stagecoach Scotland, said: “Stagecoach has been at the forefront in public transport development in the UK. This investment in Aberdeenshire demonstrates the commitment of our company to making public transport an easy to use and pleasant alternative to the private car. People not only benefit from the convenience and comfort of the bus, but can also work with us in helping cut pollution and congestion".

In a high profile launch attended by key councillors in the area, the newly branded vehicles were formally unveiled on Tuesday 1^st February at Lido car park, South Road, Peterhead.

In launching the vehicles, Councillor Alison McInnes, chair of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, said: "We are delighted with the continuing investment in the North-east from Stagecoach Bluebird. Quality public transport is a key theme of our Local Transport Strategy and this latest vehicle upgrade builds on a range of improvements in this area, including the successful Ellon Park & Ride service".

"Today's development again demonstrates both parties' commitment to our Quality Partnership agreement which aims to provide first-class services that will encourage more bus travel."