Glasgow's bus network set for more frequent services

Date: 19/2/2013

Glasgow's bus service is set to undergo its most substantial overhaul since the late 1990s, with operator First unveiling a new initiative to increase passengers on the network.

The scheme will involve having buses run more frequently and offering customers free wi-fi as the company attempts to improve the travelling experience of residents and visitors in the city.

It is expected that certain routes will be changed or re-numbered as part of the project, with some areas seeing services merged to cater for the changes.

First Glasgow Managing Director Ronnie Park explained that the new system will "significantly improve and simplify our network," insisting that passengers will be able to see the benefits.

"Simplicity will give our customers confidence that they can expect a bus every ten minutes or better during the day on the Simplicity network," he said.

"Services every ten minutes or better will encourage more people to use our buses and to use them more often.

"Glasgow has changed considerably since the current network was introduced in the 1990s. A new network is required which better matches the travelling needs of the city, especially as we approach the 2014 Commonwealth Games."

Indeed, First's announcement comes on the back of the £2 million that the Scottish Government recently granted to revamp rail stations and services in time for the Commonwealth Games.

A joint venture with ScotRail will see 20 stations across the Strathclyde network benefit from refurbishment work to upgrade infrastructure ahead of next summer's event, with capacity and accessibility expected to improve.

"The 2014 Games will be a huge event, attracting visitors from across the world, and these stations will be gateways to Glasgow as well as the Commonwealth Games," said Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. 

With First planning to have nearly 300 buses offering free wi-fi by the end of the year, Glasgow is set to see some substantial changes to its transport network in the coming months.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

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