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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

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Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...

Happy Al's Welcomes Two New ADL Enviro400 Double-Deckers

Those familiar with the blog will know the author is proudly based in Birkenhead, so it's always a delight to see further investment in a local bus operator. Al’s Coaches – or Happy Al’s to many – has been a family-run fixture in the North West since 1972, earning its place as one of the region’s top bus and coach providers.

A white double-decker bus is parked on a wet pavement in an industrial area. It has a sleek, modern design with tinted windows. The registration plate reads DD74 ALS. The sky is overcast, and the surroundings are urban with some buildings visible.
Alexander Dennis

The company has just added two Alexander Dennis Enviro400 double-deckers to its fleet. These buses, boasting 85 seats with three-point belts, USB charging ports and a public address system, are fully PSVAR-compliant, meaning they’re wheelchair accessible and meet the latest accessibility standards. Ideal for school contracts and private hires, they offer a comfortable and modern travel experience for larger groups.

Mark Cullinan, Director of Al’s Coaches, commented on the new arrivals:

“Built to a high specification, our new Alexander Dennis Enviro400 buses are versatile additions to our fleet that will always deliver highest standards to our customers, allowing large groups to travel together on a single vehicle.”

Simon Wood, Regional Sales Manager for Alexander Dennis, added:

“I’m delighted that our Enviro400 has again been chosen by Al’s Coaches, with two new examples this year joining similar buses that we built in 2018 and 2021. It’s a pleasure to continue to work with Mark and his team, and I look forward to continuing this relationship.”

It’s great to see a local operator like Al’s Coaches investing in high-quality vehicles, ensuring that passengers – whether they’re on a school run or heading to a private event – travel in style and comfort.

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