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Stagecoach services running on world’s longest busway

Posted: 8 August 2011 | Stagecoach | 1 comment

Stagecoach is running services on the world’s longest busway after the successful opening of the multi-million-pound public transport link…

Stagecoach has started running services on the world's longest busway

Stagecoach is running services on the world’s longest busway after the successful opening of the multi-million-pound public transport link.

Stagecoach has started running services on the world's longest busway

The revolutionary new link offers a reliable, fast and frequent service seven days a week between Huntingdon, St Ives and Cambridge. It gives residents a high quality alternative to the long queues and uncertain journey times on the notoriously congested A14.

The Busway, the longest track of its kind in the world, is expected to attract around 3.5 million trips a year.

It includes two new park and ride sites at St Ives and Longstanton with spaces for hundreds of cars, and covered cycle parking. The shorter southern section connects Cambridge Railway Station, Addenbrooke’s Hospital and Trumpington park and ride with a completely traffic-free link.

Stagecoach, one of two operators providing services on The Busway, is using a £3m fleet of 20 luxury buses that have been fitted with small rubber guide wheels.

The greener Stagecoach buses run on 100% biofuel and produce up to 80% less carbon emissions than vehicles using conventional diesel. All of the specially-branded vehicles are equipped with leather seats, air chill, real time information, and wi-fi to enable passengers to access email and the internet on the move.

Andy Campbell, Managing Director for Stagecoach in Cambridge, said: “The Busway is a visionary project. We believe that our luxury buses, with free wi-fi internet access, will encourage more people out of their cars and on to the route. I am pleased to see so many people trying out the new system, which provides a quick and smooth journey.”

Passengers using Stagecoach services in Cambridge already have access to a smart ticketing scheme with thousands of customers now using StagecoachSmart travel cards on buses in the area.

Busway passengers can also enjoy smarter travel through the Busway multi-operator Smartcard, which is accepted by Stagecoach and the other guided busway operator, Whippet. Full details are available online at www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk.

The dedicated track for guided buses will mean passengers can travel by public transport between St Ives park and ride and the Science Park in Cambridge in just 20 minutes.

Ian Bates, Cambridgeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member Growth and Planning, said: “I was very pleased to see the Busway open as it will raise the bar for other public transport schemes in the future and is an asset for Cambridgeshire communities to enjoy. Being able to get on a bus in Huntingdon or St Ives and bypass the congestion on the notorious A14 is fantastic. This route is all about giving people a reliable and green alternative to using the car.”

Full information on routes and timetables for The Busway can be found at www.thebusway.info.

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