Good News for the Boarders, Good News for J & A Kay, ADL & Optare

Posted on 13 Apr 2017 at 09:42

An investment of £3.5million in 30 new vehicles has been made by West Coast Motors for its new wholly owned subsidiary Borders Buses Ltd which took over First Scotland East’s operations in the Scottish Borders last month.

The acquisition involved the transfer of 116 employees based at Galashiels depot, Hawick, Peebles and Kelso outstations. All services operated by First Borders have been maintained on a like-for-like basis, according to Borders Buses.

The new vehicles include Alexander Dennis and Optare single-decks and ADL double-decks, some of which have already entered service.

“We are delighted to confirm the purchase of First Scotland East’s operations in the Scottish Borders and welcome our new customers and colleagues on board,” says Colin Craig, managing director, West Coast Motors. “Our investment is a clear demonstration of our ongoing commitment to the Borders and beyond, and we look forward to expanding our bus network to serve new and existing customers.

“Whilst exciting, it’s important to add we do not underestimate the challenges which lie ahead. Borders railway has had a significant impact on the local bus network, but represents an opportunity for local bus services to be adapted to complement and enhance the public transport network in and around the Scottish Borders.

J & A Kay have produced parts for both Optare’s single-deck bus and ADL’s double-deck bus. These include, the forward screens, light embellishers, cab door and emergency doors.

See the full article from Bus & Coach here.

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