Morebus to run extra services across Bournemouth after the collapse of Yellow Buses
Morebus has announced it is to run extra services in Bournemouth from Saturday, after the collapse of rival operator Yellow Buses.
The company, part of the Go-Ahead group, says it is 'proud' to be stepping in to run services.
The new services will begin on Saturday the 6th of August, and will operate on similar routes that Yellow Buses ran.
The company stressed, however, that timetables will not be the same and routes will differ.
It added that services will be at a basic level to begin with, whilst morebus reviews what it can offer in the area.
Some Yellow Buses passes will initially be accepted to keep customers moving.
“We are sad to learn that Yellow Buses will soon cease trading, and we understand the impact this will have on those who rely on its services in the region, as well as on its employees,” said Morebus managing director, Andrew Wickham.“I can reassure local people and visitors to the area that Morebus is now ready to step in, to ensure bus users can still get to where they need to go. We have moved additional vehicles to the area, in order to provide the service needed - including 15 brand new Euro 6, low emissions, buses that Morebus and Bournemouth University have invested in.“These were delivered ahead of schedule, and are ready for the road - so that our current fleet can be used to fill the gaps left by Yellow Buses.“For Yellow Buses drivers who are concerned about their careers, I’m pleased to report that Morebus is increasing its rate of pay from this coming Sunday, to £13.00 an hour. And, for a limited period, we will continue to offer our £2,000 welcome bonus for anyone who joins with a PCV licence.“These benefits are not limited to Yellow Buses drivers - but apply to any drivers who wish to join our team. For anyone who doesn’t already hold a licence, that’s not a problem we can provide full training. We also have vacancies for depot shunters/cleaners, engineers and customer service assistants.“We recognise the impact a change of operator will have on passengers, and appreciate some people may already have tickets from Yellow Buses. We are happy to accept these up until and including Saturday 13 August, as we welcome new customers on board our award-winning services.“Initially we are introducing a temporary, emergency, timetable - to keep people moving and to ensure there are no gaps in bus services across the area. However, we are planning to increase service levels as soon as we can.”
What routes will morebus run?
Routes 1/1b - Bournemouth to Christchurch
Route 1a - Bournemouth to Somerford via Boscombe
Route 2 and 4 - Bournemouth to Castlepoint via Station
Routes 5/5a and 6/6a - Bournemouth to Kinson via Station
Route 737 - Bournemouth to Airport via Station
Will Yellow Bus passes be accepted?
morebus has said it will accept any valid yellow bus period pass tickets for 7 days within 'Zone A'.
Passengers will need to show the driver the pass with the expiry date cleared displayed.
After the 7 day period passes may not be accepted and passengers will need to purchase a morebus ticket.
Will morebus take on Yellow Buses staff?
The company has said it would like to hear from Yellow Buses staff and will be opening a recruitment centre on Friday morning.
The details of where this recruitment event will be held is set to be announced on Thursday.
Staff will have to apply to work at morebus, as the company has not taken over Yellow Buses.