NI Transport Minister, Conor Murphy has announced a new contract for the supply of 48 'Solar Rural' Translink Ulsterbuses between Translink, local manufacturer Wrightbus and supplier Scania.

Announcing the contract the Minister said: "This contract will bring new and improved buses to rural areas throughout the north, which will help make travelling by public transport more accessible for those living in rural communities. Translink have successfully worked in partnership with local manufacturer Wrightbus, and the supplier Scania, to ensure that the new 'Solar Rural' buses are specifically designed with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair or buggy access, comfortable seating and good standing space. I look forward to seeing the first of the new buses in rural areas throughout the north next month."

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The Minister also took the opportunity to view a new Ulsterbus High Capacity bus. He said: "Translink have also worked closely with Wrightbus and the supplier Volvo and we can now mark the completion of the delivery of 61 new high capacity vehicles. These new buses which have emphasis on safety, comfort and the environment will be seen throughout towns and rural areas here."

Re-affirming the department’s commitment to investment in public transport the Minister added: "Significant investment of almost £104million by my Department has been provided from 2004/05 to 2008/09 to purchase over 700 new buses."

(NS/GK)