News / Transport
New MetroBus frequency revised down
The frequency of the MetroBus due to begin service next year has been revised down.
A £200 million network of segregated lanes was agreed in 2011 and is now under construction.
But services could drop from five to three every hour, according to an early contract published in May.
is needed now More than ever
The Quality Partnership Scheme document also suggests the buses may not be as environmentally friendly as initially agreed.
Travel West, which is delivering the Government-funded project, said the document outlines “minimum requirements”.
Tim kent, Lib Dem transport boss when the MetroBus was approved, said the new document shows “less buses, slower buses and scheme delayed costing millions“.
Mark Bradshaw, the council’s Labour transport boss until last month, said the buses “must be greener” and offer smartcard ticketing.
Travel West said: “The Quality Partnership Scheme includes the setting of minimum frequencies and maximum fares for MetroBus services. This is very unusual in Great Britain and is an innovative use of available transport legislation.
“The vehicle specification in the QPS is for a diesel-electric ‘hybrid’ vehicle or equivalent in terms of emissions. This standard is seen as the most ambitious that is achievable as a commercial investment. It is understood to be the first time that a hybrid-drive or equivalent vehicle will be delivered in the UK without public subsidy.”
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
