Bus Wars?

With the recent introduction of new timetables by both AnglianBus and First on their services between Great Yarmouth and Norwich it appears that the route is becoming intensely competitive.

MAN EcoCity gas bus WX61FXO on trial with AnglianBus in December 2011

AnglianBus are continuing their aggressive stance by introducing a new service between Lowestoft and Norwich in competition with First's X2 route.

Service 146 is to start between the two centres in early December and it is expected that some of the 13 new gas powered buses currently on order could be used on the route.

The buses are part funded under round three of the government’s Green Bus Fund which is aimed at reducing fuel emission levels by encouraging bus operators and local councils to use more eco-friendly vehicles.

Speaking to the East Suffolk Travellers Association on Saturday AnglianBus general manager Andrew Pursey said:

We trialled the bus on three different routes last year and were extremely pleased with the results and feedback from drivers and passengers. We were successful with our bid earlier this year and I am hoping we will see them in a few weeks’ time – to start in December or January.

The new vehicles represent a significant investment by the company and they should also make an appearance on services in the Great Yarmouth area.

My thanks to Christian Newsome for alerting me to registration of the AnglianBus 146 service