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Anybus Smartcard En Route to the Fylde Coast

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From the 11th of November, getting around the Fylde Coast will be a breeze. The AnyBus smartcard is launching, giving you one ticket to use across most bus services in the area. Whether you’re hopping between Blackpool and Fleetwood or cruising down to Lytham St Annes, you’re covered. No more juggling different tickets or fretting about which bus company you’re with—just tap and go.
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First Bus Adds Extra Park & Ride Services in York for Christmas

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First Bus is stepping up its game in York as the city gears up for Christmas. From the 10th of November to the 24th of December, the transport provider will add extra buses on the Park and Ride network. This will help shoppers, commuters and tourists navigate the festive crowds with more ease. And the best part? These buses are all-electric. First Bus uses 12 dedicated Optare Versa EV single-deck and 20 Optare MetroDecker EV double-deck electric buses on these routes, a key part of their strategy to offer greener, cleaner transport options for the historic city of York.

A double-decker blue bus labeled First York on route 3, heading towards Asknan Bar, is stopped next to a sidewalk. Pedestrians and historic brick buildings are in the background under a blue sky.
First Bus

The extra buses will service some of the busiest routes connecting York’s Park and Ride sites with the city centre. These routes include Services 3, 7, 8 and 9. For example, Service 3 (Askham Bar) will see two extra buses at weekends, reducing the waiting time from 12 minutes to 9-10 minutes. Service 7 (Designer Outlet) will add one bus on weekdays and two on weekends, improving frequency from 13 minutes to 9-10 minutes. Over the weekend, Service 8 (Grimston Bar) will add one extra bus, while Service 9 (Monk’s Cross) will see an additional bus on Saturdays​.

These changes are perfectly timed to coincide with the city’s famous Christmas Market, which kicks off on the 14th of November. The Park and Ride service is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, especially during the busy Christmas period. With over 5,500 free parking spaces across six sites, it’s an affordable and convenient way to get into town. Adding more buses will help ensure the service runs smoothly and keeps up with the increased demand​.

A blue double-decker bus is parked beside a small building labeled York Park & Ride. The bus displays Designer Outlet 7 as its destination. The scene includes trees and a paved area, with signs for the park and ride service.
First Bus

Kayleigh Ingham, Commercial Director for First Bus in North & West Yorkshire, commented:
“The timing of this increase in services also coincides with the beginning of the Christmas Market on 14 November, which we know is a significant festive attraction in York. Encouraging more people to use Park and Ride and travel on our zero-emission bus fleet will also help reduce traffic congestion in York and create cleaner air during a busy period on the roads.”
First Bus is doing its bit to make York greener. The electric buses don’t just help with traffic; they’re also environmentally friendly. With zero tailpipe emissions, they contribute to cleaner air in the city. The buses are fully electric, so they don’t produce the harmful exhaust fumes you’d expect from traditional diesel buses. Plus, they’re designed with energy efficiency in mind, making them a perfect fit for a city like York, where environmental and historical preservation go hand in hand​.

A blue double-decker bus at a bus stop marked 8. Several people are boarding or waiting nearby. Trees and a shelter with a glass canopy are in the background. A banner displays an image of a historical figure.
First Bus

In York, where the past meets the present, public transport needs to work harder to balance modern demands with the city’s historic charm. The First Bus fleet in York is helping to reduce the city’s carbon footprint while ensuring a smooth ride for everyone. These buses are ideal for a place like York, where thousands of visitors come each year to see historic landmarks, from the Roman walls to the magnificent York Minster. It’s crucial that the city offers clean, efficient transport that preserves its beauty while accommodating the needs of modern life.

York’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its extensive fleet of electric buses, which includes single-deck Optare Versa EVs and double-deck Optare MetroDecker EVs. These buses operate daily on key routes, enhancing public transport while reducing carbon emissions. However, during peak times or maintenance periods, First Bus ensures seamless service on the Park and Ride routes by deploying other electric models like some of the 29 Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliners or 24 Wright GB Kite Electroliners. This flexibility supports York's goal of cleaner air and reduced traffic congestion, crucial for a historic city renowned for its narrow streets and delicate architecture.

First Bus isn’t just about getting people from A to B. The company is focused on making sure that their buses play an active role in the fight against climate change. The likes of the Optare Versa EVs and Optare MetroDecker EVs that are used on these dedicated bus services, are built to last and designed to handle the rigours of busy urban environments. They come with fast-charging capabilities, allowing them to get back on the road quicker, reducing downtime and maximising service. They also feature energy-efficient technology and comfortable interiors, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for passengers​.

A double-decker bus is parked at a bus station with a brick building and several informational boards. The station has a sheltered waiting area, empty benches, and is surrounded by trees and a clear sky.
First Bus

Michael Howard, Head of Highways and Transport at City of York Council, said:
“Christmas is one of York’s busiest times, so these additional buses on the Park and Ride routes are to be welcomed. With over 5,500 free parking spaces across six sites, the Park and Ride is an affordable, easy and quick way to get the whole family into town.”
The Park and Ride system has been key to keeping York’s streets clear of congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons. With more buses being used on the Park and Ride services, it’s going to be even easier for people to avoid the chaos of city centre parking.

As York continues to grow in popularity, especially during the Christmas season, First Bus tells us that it's committed to providing a sustainable, efficient and green solution for transport. The company is working to ensure that York’s historic centre is accessible while helping to reduce the environmental impact of public transport. For the locals, the city visitors and the millions who will flock to the famous Christmas Market, First Bus’s investment in these extra buses is a win for everyone.

To find out more about the Christmas services, timetables and routes, visit the First Bus website for the full details​.

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