The latest order from Alexander Dennis for Blackpool is nearly ready for delivery. One of the four E400s has been noticed on test at Falkirk. It is registered SK20AUT. The first of the 15 Enviro 200 single deckers is registered YK20OFA.
These are expected to replace the last Tridents - of which 18 remain. The 8 remaining Plaxton Centro bodied Volvos are now expected to be retained as a live reserve fleet to provide extra fleet capacity for rail replacement work. In practise these are likely to run on service work with newer buses working the rail replacement.
The most recent rail replacement saw services from Preston to Accrington and Blackburn to Hebden Bridge during the recent 'blockade' between Blackburn and Accrington in February half term. The Accrington buses ran all week using E400s, the Hebden Bridge work was mainly weekends and tended to use Citaros due to a low bridge en route.
Another Volvo B7 has reached its new owner with 521 now in service in Salisbury with AC Travel. Also not previously reported is that Solo 243 has emerged with Hulley's of Baslow in their smart blue and cream livery. 522 has emerged at Hunts, Alford and 523 with Paul Winson, Loughborough.
