Jump to content

Harrogate Bus Company: Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
Removed "www." from URL
Added new eCitaro images.
 
(39 intermediate revisions by 9 users not shown)
Line 4: Line 4:
{{Infobox Bus transit
{{Infobox Bus transit
|name = The Harrogate Bus Company
|name = The Harrogate Bus Company
|logo = Harrogate Bus Company.png
|logo = HarrogateBusCompanyLogo2024.png
|logo_size=175px
⚫
|image = 20190707-Transdev-1855.jpg
|image = Transdev Harrogate Bus Company 1020 - BV74 NFR.jpg
|image_alt = Red and black single-decker bus travelling through a bus station
|image_caption = Harrogate Bus Company [[Mercedes-Benz eCitaro]] [[battery electric bus]] at [[Harrogate]] bus station in December 2024
|parent = [[Transdev Blazefield]]
|parent = [[Transdev Blazefield]]
|founded = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1906|11}}
|founded = {{Start date and age|df=yes|1906|11}}
Line 13: Line 16:
* [[West Yorkshire]]
* [[West Yorkshire]]
}}
}}
|service_type = Bus and coach
|service_type = Public transport
|fleet = 58 (as of August 2023)
|fleet = 57 (as of June 2024){{Citation needed|reason=Need to find a usable source|date=June 2024}}
|website = {{url|https://transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/}}
|website = {{url|https://transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/}}
|leader_type = Managing Director
|leader_type = Managing Director
Line 31: Line 34:
In 1968, West Yorkshire Road Car Company became a subsidiary of the [[National Bus Company (UK)|National Bus Company]].
In 1968, West Yorkshire Road Car Company became a subsidiary of the [[National Bus Company (UK)|National Bus Company]].


In 1987, West Yorkshire Road Car Company was sold in a [[management buyout]] to the AJS Group, owned by former [[East Yorkshire (bus company)|East Yorkshire Motor Services]] managing director, Alan Stephenson. The business was split into smaller companies in December 1988, one of which became Harrogate & District Transport.
In 1987, West Yorkshire Road Car Company was sold in a [[management buyout]] to the AJS Group, owned by former [[East Yorkshire (bus company)|East Yorkshire Motor Services]] managing director, Alan Stephenson. The business was split into smaller companies in December 1988, one of which became Harrogate & District Travel.


Following the [[Bus deregulation in Great Britain|deregulation of bus services]] in 1986, Harrogate Independent Travel was set up by a number of West Yorkshire Road Car Company drivers, in a bid to challenge their former employer. The company was subsequently purchased by AJS Group in April 1989.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=20 April 1989 |title=AJS swallows Challenger |url=https://archive.commercialmotor.com/article/20th-april-1989/18/ajs-swallows-challenger |website=[[Commercial Motor]] |page=18}}</ref>
Following the [[Bus deregulation in Great Britain|deregulation of bus services]] in 1986, Harrogate Independent Travel was set up by a number of West Yorkshire Road Car Company drivers, in a bid to challenge their former employer. The company was subsequently purchased by AJS Group in April 1989.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=20 April 1989 |title=AJS swallows Challenger |url=https://archive.commercialmotor.com/article/20th-april-1989/18/ajs-swallows-challenger |website=[[Commercial Motor]] |page=18}}</ref>
Line 42: Line 45:


In January 2006, French-based operator [[Transdev]] acquired the Blazefield Group, along with 305 vehicles.<ref>{{cite web |date=7 January 2006 |title=Transdev acquires Blazefield Group |url=http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=448&categoryid=0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029195107if_/http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=448&categoryid=0 |archive-date=29 October 2013 |access-date=21 April 2022 |website=Bus & Coach Professional}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Briggs |first=Ian |date=9 January 2006 |title=A new stop for Blazefield |url=http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/analysis/a-new-stop-for-blazefield-1-2600335 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415092036/http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/analysis/a-new-stop-for-blazefield-1-2600335 |archive-date=15 April 2016 |access-date=21 April 2022 |website=[[Yorkshire Post]]}}</ref>
In January 2006, French-based operator [[Transdev]] acquired the Blazefield Group, along with 305 vehicles.<ref>{{cite web |date=7 January 2006 |title=Transdev acquires Blazefield Group |url=http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=448&categoryid=0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029195107if_/http://www.busandcoach.com/newspage.aspx?id=448&categoryid=0 |archive-date=29 October 2013 |access-date=21 April 2022 |website=Bus & Coach Professional}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Briggs |first=Ian |date=9 January 2006 |title=A new stop for Blazefield |url=http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/analysis/a-new-stop-for-blazefield-1-2600335 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415092036/http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/analysis/a-new-stop-for-blazefield-1-2600335 |archive-date=15 April 2016 |access-date=21 April 2022 |website=[[Yorkshire Post]]}}</ref>
{{Easy CSS image crop
|image = HARROGATE ^ DISTRICT - Flickr - secret coach park.jpg
|desired_width = 220
|crop_left_perc =
|crop_right_perc = 6
|crop_top_perc = 4
|crop_bottom_perc = 8
|caption = A Transdev in Harrogate ''Nidderdale Branch'' branded [[Wright Renown]] bodied [[Volvo B10BLE]] in [[Harrogate]], operating service 24 in August 2011
}}
⚫
In 2010, the company was rebranded under the name ''Transdev in Harrogate''. As part of this, a new butterscotch and burgundy livery was introduced across the fleet, with the exception of the double-decker [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] bodied [[Volvo B7TL]] vehicles dedicatedly branded for the company's Leeds to Harrogate and Ripon [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]], which received a revision to its original black, red and grey livery in 2009.


In 2011, the [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] route 36 fleet underwent a refurbishment program. The route received a new identity – named ‘36 City Connect’ – and a new red and black livery was introduced, alongside the addition of new leather coach-style seats, and the introduction of a 2+1 seating arrangement behind the staircase upstairs. The buses were also fitted with new new front fascias, as seen on their facelifted [[Wright Eclipse Gemini#Second generation (2008–2018)|second generation model]], and new powertrains.{{Citation needed|reason=Need to find a usable source|date=August 2024}}
⚫
In 2010, the company was rebranded under the name Transdev in Harrogate. As part of this, a new butterscotch and burgundy livery was introduced across the fleet, with the exception of the double-decker [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] bodied [[Volvo B7TL]] vehicles dedicatedly branded for the company's Leeds to Harrogate and Ripon [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]], which received a revision to its original black, red and grey livery in 2009.


In 2011, the company became involved in a [[Bus deregulation in the United Kingdom#Bus War|bus war]] with local independent operator, [[Connexionsbuses]]. It concerned bus services operating in and around the [[market town]] of [[Wetherby]].<ref>{{cite news |date=4 July 2011 |title=Harrogate to Wetherby bus war breaks out |work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-14017780 |access-date=22 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=9 July 2011 |title=War erupts over bus service |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805224638/http://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/war-erupts-over-bus-service-1-3556139 |url=http://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/war-erupts-over-bus-service-1-3556139 |archive-date=5 August 2016 |access-date=22 April 2022 |newspaper=Harrogate Advertiser}}</ref> In the same year, a retendering exercise by [[North Yorkshire County Council]] saw all of the company's council contracted routes transferred to other operators. An exception was service X59, which operated between [[Harrogate]] and [[Skipton]] via [[Bolton Abbey (village)|Bolton Abbey]]. Initially, the service was operated commercially and at a reduced frequency,<ref>{{cite web |date=5 June 2011 |title=No plans to restore X59 bus service |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/9062316.north-yorkshire-county-council-says-skipton-to-harrogate-bus-service-will-stay-as-it-is/ |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]] }}</ref> prior to its eventual withdrawal in March 2013.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tate |first=Lesley |date=7 February 2013 |title=Skipton to Harrogate bus service is axed |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/10213769.skipton-to-harrogate-bus-service-is-axed/ |access-date=11 March 2020 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]]}}</ref>
The company also became involved in a [[Bus deregulation in the United Kingdom#Bus War|bus war]] with local independent operator [[Connexionsbuses]] in 2011. It concerned bus services operating in and around the [[market town]] of [[Wetherby]].<ref>{{cite news |date=4 July 2011 |title=Harrogate to Wetherby bus war breaks out |work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-14017780 |access-date=22 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=9 July 2011 |title=War erupts over bus service |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805224638/http://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/war-erupts-over-bus-service-1-3556139 |url=http://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/war-erupts-over-bus-service-1-3556139 |archive-date=5 August 2016 |access-date=22 April 2022 |newspaper=Harrogate Advertiser}}</ref> In the same year, a retendering exercise by [[North Yorkshire County Council]] saw all of the company's council contracted routes transferred to other operators. An exception was service X59, which operated between [[Harrogate]] and [[Skipton]] via [[Bolton Abbey (village)|Bolton Abbey]]. Initially, the service was operated commercially and at a reduced frequency,<ref>{{cite web |date=5 June 2011 |title=No plans to restore X59 bus service |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/9062316.north-yorkshire-county-council-says-skipton-to-harrogate-bus-service-will-stay-as-it-is/ |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]] }}</ref> prior to its eventual withdrawal in March 2013.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tate |first=Lesley |date=7 February 2013 |title=Skipton to Harrogate bus service is axed |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/10213769.skipton-to-harrogate-bus-service-is-axed/ |access-date=11 March 2020 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]]}}</ref>
{{Easy CSS image crop
|image = Harrogate bus station - September 2015 (3) (geograph 4667224).jpg
|desired_width = 220
|crop_left_perc = 4
|crop_right_perc =
|crop_top_perc = 37
|crop_bottom_perc = 10
|caption = A Harrogate Connect branded [[Optare Versa]] in [[Harrogate]], operating service 3 in September 2015
}}
In 2012, the company introduced eight brand-new single-decker [[Optare Versa]] vehicles to serve local routes within Harrogate. These buses operated on routes 2 (to [[Bilton, Harrogate|Bilton]]), 3 (to Jennyfield), and 6 (to Pannal Ash) under the new brand name ''Harrogate Connect'',<ref>{{cite web |date=10 May 2012 |title=Top ten Versas for Transdev Blazefield |url=https://www.optare.com/news/general/top-ten-versas-for-transdev-blazefield/ |access-date=13 March 2023 |website=Optare}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=7 August 2012 |title=Latest News – Welcome to HARROGATE CONNECT ~ Transdev |url=http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=592 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120807043525/http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=592 |archivedate=7 August 2012 |access-date=16 March 2023 |website=www.harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> with the original butterscotch and burgundy livery being revised and replaced by a new red and black colour scheme. During 2013, the remainder of the fleet underwent a transformation. All services (except for the dedicatedly branded [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]]) adopted the Harrogate Connect identity.

{{Easy CSS image crop
|image = Harrogate Bus Company 7, New Briggate, Leeds (18th May 2018) 002.jpg
|desired_width = 220
|crop_left_perc =
|crop_right_perc = 11
|crop_top_perc = 7
|crop_bottom_perc = 14
|caption = A Harrogate Bus Company branded [[Wright_Eclipse_Gemini#Second_generation_(2008–2018)|Wright Eclipse Gemini 2]] bodied [[Volvo B9TL]] in [[Leeds]], operating service 7 in May 2018
}}
In 2016, the company underwent a significant transformation. As part of this, the company rebranded as ''The Harrogate Bus Company'',<ref>{{cite news |date=16 August 2016 |title=Harrogate Bus Company celebrates 110 years of service |work=Coach & Bus Week |pages=10 |issue=1253}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=September 2016 |title=Transdev rolls out two more rebrands |work=[[Buses (magazine)|Buses]] |pages=9 |issue=738}}</ref> and initiated a fleet modernisation program. The first phase involved the delivery of fourteen brand new high-specification [[Wright Gemini 3]] bodied [[Volvo B5TL]] double-decker buses for operation on [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]]. These new buses replaced older [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] vehicles, and the route received a new identity – named ‘Riding Redefined’ – along with a new two-tone red and black livery.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 January 2016 |title=Route 36 re-launched |url=https://cbwmagazine.com/22748/ |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=CBW}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=19 July 2021 |title=The 36: Riding, Redefined |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/_/36-riding-redefined |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314215222/https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/_/36-riding-redefined |archive-date=14 March 2023 |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref> The new fleet entered service in late January.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 January 2016 |title=RIDING. REDEFINED. The new 36 has arrived. |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1647 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629031324/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1647 |archive-date=29 June 2016 |access-date=19 August 2024 |website=Transdev in Harrogate}}</ref>


In 2012, 8 brand new single-decker [[Optare Versa]] vehicles entered service for use on the company's local services within Harrogate (2 to [[Bilton, Harrogate|Bilton]], 3 to Jennyfield, and the 6 to Pannal Ash), launching under a new brand name – Harrogate Connect.<ref>{{cite web |date=10 May 2012 |title=Top ten Versas for Transdev Blazefield |url=https://www.optare.com/news/general/top-ten-versas-for-transdev-blazefield/ |access-date=13 March 2023 |website=Optare }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=7 August 2012 |title=Latest News – Welcome to HARROGATE CONNECT ~ Transdev |url=http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=592|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120807043525/http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=592 |archivedate=7 August 2012|access-date=16 March 2023|website=www.harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> To coincide with this, during 2013, the rest of the fleet received the new revised version of the original butterscotch and burgundy livery – now coloured red and black – and all services (with the exception of dedicatedly branded [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]]) began to operate under the Harrogate Connect identity. However, the double-decker [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] bodied [[Volvo B7TL]] vehicles branded for the route 36 retained their own new black and red livery, which launched alongside the route's new brand identity – known as "36 City Connect" – in 2011.
Later that year, a new two-tone red livery was also introduced for the standard fleet, and ten [[Wright Eclipse|Wright Eclipse Urban]] bodied [[Volvo B7RLE]] single-deckers were refurbished for operation on [[Harrogate Bus Company#The 1|route 1]],<ref>{{cite web |date=18 May 2017 |title=Latest News – Amazing buses for the 1 ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1726 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518034601/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1726 |archivedate=18 May 2017 |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> including six existing buses and four new transfers from other Transdev subsidiaries. These, along with two [[Wright Eclipse Gemini]] bodied [[Volvo B7TL]] and [[Volvo B9TL|B9TLs]] recently replaced from the 36 fleet, were upgraded with modern passenger amenities such as WiFi connectivity, USB charging capabilities and audio/visual next stop information, and were also fitted with superchargers to reduce [[NOx]] emissions. Additionally, the Eclipse Urbans were equipped with new front fascias, as seen on their facelifted [[Wright Eclipse#Second generation (2008–2015)|second generation model]]. The refurbished Wright Eclipse Geminis entered service in June 2016,<ref>{{Cite tweet |user=harrogatebus |number=738425716551909378 |title=Our new #HarrogateBusCompany brand is hitting the road soon, celebrating our 110 years & why we're proud to be local}}</ref> while the Eclipse Urbans entered service on route 1 on 17 July,<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=754738666208133121 |user=harrogatebus |title=Your buses on the 1 to #Knaresborough are getting an amazing makeover. Two are out there now - hope you like them!}}</ref> replacing older [[Wright Renown]] bodied [[Volvo B10BLE]] single-deckers that were branded for the route.


In July 2016, the company was again rebranded, now operating as The Harrogate Bus Company.<ref>{{cite news |date=16 August 2016 |title=Harrogate Bus Company celebrates 110 years of service |pages=10 |work=Coach & Bus Week |issue=1253}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=September 2016 |title=Transdev rolls out two more rebrands |pages=9 |work=[[Buses (magazine)|Buses]] |issue=738}}</ref> To coincide with this, a huge fleet upgrade was undertaken, which included the introduction of the current two-tone red livery, as well as a refurbishment of the company's route 1 branded single-deck [[Wright Eclipse|Wright Eclipse Urban]] bodied [[Volvo B7RLE]] vehicles to set the new standard specification of free WiFi, USB charging capabilities and audio/visual next stop information.<ref>{{cite web |date=18 May 2017 |title=Latest News – Amazing buses for the 1 ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1726|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518034601/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=1726 |archivedate=18 May 2017|access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> Other Wright Eclipse Urban vehicles were transferred from some of Transdev's other subsidiaries to replace the older [[Wright Renown]] bodied [[Volvo B10BLE]] single-decker vehicles which were branded for the route. 2016 also saw the launch of 14 new high-specification [[Wright Gemini 3]] bodied [[Volvo B5TL]] double-deck vehicles on the [[Harrogate bus route 36|route 36]], replacing the older Wright Eclipse Gemini vehicles. The 36 also received its own new brand – "Riding Redefined" – as well as a new two-tone red and black livery.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 January 2016 |title=Route 36 re-launched |url=https://cbwmagazine.com/22748/ |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=CBW }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=19 July 2021 |title=The 36: Riding, Redefined |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/_/36-riding-redefined |archive-date= |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref> In July 2017, a new brand was introduced for the route 770/771, which saw the services become renumbered alongside the new brand name known as "Superior 70/71".<ref name="Superior 70 & 71">{{cite web |date=9 September 2017 |title=Latest News – Superior 70 & 71 – now better than ever ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909172816/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2015 |archivedate=9 September 2017|access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> A fleet of Wright Eclipse Urban 2 bodied Volvo B7RLE single-deck vehicles were transferred from Transdev's operations in [[Burnley Bus Company|Burnley]] and refurbished to equip them with WiFi, USB charging capabilities and audio/visual next stop information. The new fleet entered service on the route on 23 July,<ref name="Superior 70 & 71"/><ref>{{cite web |date=2 July 2017 |title=Latest News – Changes to our buses in Harrogate from Sunday 23 July ~ Transdev |url=http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702231340/http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2023 |archivedate=2 July 2017|access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> eventually replacing the entire fleet of Volvo B10BLE Wright Renown vehicles, which then left the fleet in 2018. In April 2018, due to the loss of council funding for the 70 to [[Connexionsbuses]],<ref>{{cite web |date=19 September 2018 |title=Revision to X70 to include Follifoot and Rudding Park – Connexions Buses |url=http://www.connexionsbuses.com/uncategorized/revision-x70-include-follifoot-rudding-park/ |access-date=16 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919100607/http://www.connexionsbuses.com/uncategorized/revision-x70-include-follifoot-rudding-park/ |archive-date=19 September 2018 }}</ref> the 71 was again renumbered and rebranded, now known as "Simple 7".<ref>{{cite web |date=25 March 2018 |title=Latest News – Simple, fast and direct – 70 & 71 become 7 from 15 April ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2277|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180325161700/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2277 |archivedate=25 March 2018|access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref>
In July 2017, a new brand was introduced for the [[#The 7|route 770/771]], resulting in the services being renumbered and rebranded as the “Superior 70/71”.<ref name="Superior 70 & 71">{{cite web |date=9 September 2017 |title=Latest News – Superior 70 & 71 – now better than ever ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2015 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909172816/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2015 |archivedate=9 September 2017 |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> The fleet underwent significant upgrades, with [[Wright Eclipse#Second generation (2008–2015)|Wright Eclipse Urban 2]] bodied [[Volvo B7RLE]] single-deck vehicles transferred from Transdev’s [[Burnley Bus Company|Burnley]] operations and refurbished to match the WiFi connectivity, USB charging capabilities, and audio/visual next stop information features as seen on the refurbished route 1 buses. On 23 July, the new fleet commenced service on the route,<ref name="Superior 70 & 71" /><ref>{{cite web |date=2 July 2017 |title=Latest News – Changes to our buses in Harrogate from Sunday 23 July ~ Transdev |url=http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2023 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702231340/http://www.harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2023 |archivedate=2 July 2017 |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref> gradually replacing the entire existing fleet of Volvo B10BLE Wright Renown vehicles, which were phased out of service in Harrogate by 2018. However, in April 2018, due to the loss of council funding for the 70 to [[Connexionsbuses]],<ref>{{cite web |date=19 September 2018 |title=Revision to X70 to include Follifoot and Rudding Park – Connexions Buses |url=http://www.connexionsbuses.com/uncategorized/revision-x70-include-follifoot-rudding-park/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919100607/http://www.connexionsbuses.com/uncategorized/revision-x70-include-follifoot-rudding-park/ |archive-date=19 September 2018 |access-date=16 March 2023}}</ref> the 71 was once again renumbered and rebranded, now operating as the “Simple 7".<ref>{{cite web |date=25 March 2018 |title=Latest News – Simple, fast and direct – 70 & 71 become 7 from 15 April ~ Transdev |url=http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2277 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180325161700/http://harrogatebus.co.uk/news.jsp?newsID=2277 |archivedate=25 March 2018 |access-date=15 March 2023 |website=harrogatebus.co.uk}}</ref>


In partnership with [[DalesBus]], the service between Harrogate and Skipton was reintroduced in May 2021 – the first direct service between the two towns for eight years.<ref>{{cite web |last=Maguire |first=Brogan |date=29 April 2021 |title=Launch of new scenic bus route from Harrogate to Skipton every Saturday |url=https://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/launch-of-new-scenic-bus-route-from-harrogate-to-skipton-every-saturday-3219624 |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=Harrogate Advertiser }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Tate |first=Lesley |date=20 May 2021 |title=Summer bus services to Harrogate and Malham get underway this weekend |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/19316323.summer-bus-services-harrogate-malham-get-underway-weekend/ |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]] }}</ref>{{Efn|The service was reintroduced as service 59.}} As of April 2022, four buses per day operate on summer Saturdays.
In partnership with [[DalesBus]], the service between Harrogate and Skipton was reintroduced in May 2021 – the first direct service between the two towns for eight years.<ref>{{cite web |last=Maguire |first=Brogan |date=29 April 2021 |title=Launch of new scenic bus route from Harrogate to Skipton every Saturday |url=https://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/transport/launch-of-new-scenic-bus-route-from-harrogate-to-skipton-every-saturday-3219624 |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=Harrogate Advertiser }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Tate |first=Lesley |date=20 May 2021 |title=Summer bus services to Harrogate and Malham get underway this weekend |url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/19316323.summer-bus-services-harrogate-malham-get-underway-weekend/ |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Craven Herald & Pioneer]] }}</ref>{{Efn|The service was reintroduced as service 59.}} As of April 2022, four buses per day operate on summer Saturdays.


In 2024, the company's entire fleet will be converted to operation with battery-electric buses. Partially funded by the UK government's Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme, 20 [[Mercedes-Benz Citaro#Battery_version_/_eCitaro|Mercedes-Benz eCitaro]] single-deck vehicles and 19 [[Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV]] double-deck vehicles – worth £21&nbsp;million collectively – have been ordered, and are expected to enter service in Spring.<ref>{{cite web |date=16 August 2023 |title=Our new electric buses |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate/our-new-electric-buses |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230817202625/https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate/our-new-electric-buses |archive-date=17 August 2023 |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Plummer |first=John |date=16 August 2023 |title=Harrogate Bus Company places £21m order for 39 electric buses |url=https://thestrayferret.co.uk/harrogate-bus-company-places-21m-order-for-39-electric-buses/ |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=The Stray Ferret }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=16 August 2023 |title=Transdev orders eCitaro and Enviro400EV for Harrogate |url=https://www.route-one.net/news/transdev-orders-ecitaro-and-enviro400ev-for-harrogate/ |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=routeone }}</ref> 2024 also saw the introduction of route 4, a service linking King Edwin Park housing estate with Harrogate.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 April 2024 |title=changes at Harrogate from 7 April |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/news/changes-at-harrogate-from-7-april/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 April 2024 |website=Transdev}}</ref>
In 2024, the company's entire fleet will be converted to operation with battery-electric buses. Partially funded by the UK government's Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme, 20 [[Mercedes-Benz Citaro#Battery_version_/_eCitaro|Mercedes-Benz eCitaro]] single-deck vehicles and 19 [[Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV]] double-deck vehicles – worth £21&nbsp;million collectively – have been ordered, with the first Enviro400EV revealed at an unveiling event in June.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Harrogate bus firm unveil brand new electric buses |url=https://www.yourharrogate.co.uk/local-news/harrogate/harrogate-bus-firm-unveil-brand-new-electric-buses/ |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=Your Harrogate |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chalmers |first=Graham |date=18 Jun 2024 |title=Crowds get a glimpse of Harrogate's first all-electric double decker as a revolution in the roads begins in style |url=https://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/people/crowds-get-a-glimpse-of-harrogates-first-all-electric-double-decker-as-a-revolution-in-the-roads-begins-in-style-4670881 |access-date=22 June 2024 |work=Harrogate Advertiser}}</ref> They were announced to be expected to start entering service from early September.<ref>{{cite web |date=16 August 2023 |title=Our new electric buses |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate/our-new-electric-buses |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230817202625/https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate/our-new-electric-buses |archive-date=17 August 2023 |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Plummer |first=John |date=16 August 2023 |title=Harrogate Bus Company places £21m order for 39 electric buses |url=https://thestrayferret.co.uk/harrogate-bus-company-places-21m-order-for-39-electric-buses/ |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=The Stray Ferret }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=16 August 2023 |title=Transdev orders eCitaro and Enviro400EV for Harrogate |url=https://www.route-one.net/news/transdev-orders-ecitaro-and-enviro400ev-for-harrogate/ |access-date=17 August 2023 |website=routeone }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chalmers |first=Graham |date=20 May 2024 |title=This is when Harrogate new £21 million electric bus fleet will be launched and what passengers can expect |url=https://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/people/this-is-when-harrogate-new-ps21-million-electric-bus-fleet-will-be-launched-and-what-passengers-can-expect-4634750 |work=Harrogate Advertiser}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Halford |first=Paul |date=2024-06-18 |title=New bus for iconic Harrogate 36 service is 'another level' |url=https://www.route-one.net/news/new-bus-for-iconic-harrogate-36-service-is-another-level/ |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=routeone |language=en-US}}</ref> The first five eCitaros entered service on 18 November on route 1.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=18 November 2024 |title=meet the sparkling, all-new 1 for you! |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/news/meet-the-sparkling-all-new-1-for-you/ |access-date=18 November 2024 |website=[[Transdev Blazefield]]}}</ref>

2024 also saw the introduction of route 4, a service linking King Edwin Park housing estate with Harrogate.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 April 2024 |title=changes at Harrogate from 7 April |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/news/changes-at-harrogate-from-7-april/ |access-date=24 April 2024 |website=Transdev}}</ref> In October 2024, route 1D to The Pastures estate of Knaresborough was merged with the Carmires route 1C.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 October 2024 |title=changes to our buses in Harrogate from 27 Oct |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/news/changes-to-our-buses-in-harrogate-from-27-oct/ |access-date=18 November 2024 |website=[[Transdev Blazefield]]}}</ref>


==Services and branding==
==Services and branding==
{{multiple images
{{multiple images
| total_width = 350px
| total_width = 350px
| image1 = Transdev Harrogate & District bus 3612 Route 36 livery Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini YC53 MXW in Harrogate Bus Station, North Yorkshire 21 March 2008.jpg
| image1 = Harrogate Bus Station - geograph.org.uk - 738887.jpg
| image2 = Transdev Harrogate & District bus 3612 Route 36 livery Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini YC53 MXW in Harrogate Bus Station, North Yorkshire 21 March 2008.jpg
| image2 = 771 to Harrogate via Wetherby at Seacroft bus station (28th March 2015).JPG
| image3 = 771 to Harrogate via Wetherby at Seacroft bus station (28th March 2015).JPG
| image3 = Harrogate bus station - September 2015 (3) (geograph 4667224).jpg
| footer = A selection of historic buses and liveries
| image4 = Harrogate bus station - September 2015 (4) - geograph.org.uk - 4667228.jpg
| footer = Branding: past and present
| image4 = Volvo 7900e.jpg
| perrow = 2/3
| perrow = 2/3
| image5 = 20190707-Transdev-1855.jpg
| image5 = YD63VDA.jpg
}}
}}


=== The Harrogate Bus Company ===
=== The Harrogate Bus Company ===
Following the rebrand of the company in 2016, a two-tone red livery was introduced for local bus services in and around the [[spa town]] of Harrogate. As well as serving as a corporate livery, it is also used as a base for other route brands including Harrogate Electrics, The 1 ([[Knaresborough]] and Harrogate) and The 7 ([[Leeds]], [[Wetherby]] and Harrogate).
Following the rebrand of the company in 2016, a two-tone red livery was introduced for local bus services in and around the [[spa town]] of Harrogate. As well as serving as a corporate livery, it was also used as a base for dedicated route brands such as the 1, the 7, and the Harrogate Electrics network.


In November 2024, the Harrogate Bus Company brand underwent a refresh. As part of this, a fleet of battery-electric [[Mercedes-Benz Citaro#Battery_version_/_eCitaro|Mercedes-Benz eCitaros]] were introduced, replacing the company's diesel powered [[Wright Eclipse]] vehicles. Additionally, a new logo and standard red livery was adopted, and dedicated route-specific branding for routes 1 and 7 was discontinued.<ref name=":4" />
⚫
=== Harrogate Electrics ===

Alongside routes 1, 7 and Harrogate Electrics network, the company operates several other services including the 21 (Knaresborough to [[Boroughbridge]] and [[Roecliffe]]), the 24 (Harrogate to [[Pateley Bridge]]), the [[59 Skipton–Harrogate|59]] (Harrogate to [[Skipton]]), and the X98/X99 ([[Wetherby]] to [[Leeds]]).

⚫
===Harrogate Electrics===
[[File:Volvo 7900e.jpg|thumb|224x224px|A Harrogate Electrics branded [[Volvo 7900|Volvo 7900e]] at Harrogate Bus Station, in January 2019]]
Local services operating in and around Harrogate are operated by a fleet of eight high-specification, [[Battery electric bus|battery-electric]] [[Volvo 7900]] single-deck vehicles in dedicated branding. The vehicles, which were announced in February 2017,<ref>{{cite web |date=6 February 2017 |title=Volvo receives order for eight electric buses to Harrogate in the UK |url=https://www.volvobuses.com/en/news/2017/feb/volvo-buses-harrogate.html |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Volvo Bus]] }}</ref> were introduced into service in July 2018. The project was funded partly by Transdev (£1.7&nbsp;million), with a further £2.25&nbsp;million of funding granted from the Government's Low Emission Bus Scheme.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.smmt.co.uk/2017/02/harrogate-to-get-electric-bus-fleet/|title=Harrogate to get electric bus fleet|date=6 February 2017|website=Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders|access-date=13 July 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://transportdesigned.com/power-people-harrogates-electrics-live/|title=Power to the people! Harrogate's Electrics are live|last=Harrison|first=Matt|date=29 July 2018|website=Transport Designed|access-date=11 March 2020}}</ref> Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop announcements.
Local services operating in and around Harrogate are operated by a fleet of eight high-specification, [[Battery electric bus|battery-electric]] [[Volvo 7900]] single-deck vehicles in dedicated branding. The vehicles, which were announced in February 2017,<ref>{{cite web |date=6 February 2017 |title=Volvo receives order for eight electric buses to Harrogate in the UK |url=https://www.volvobuses.com/en/news/2017/feb/volvo-buses-harrogate.html |access-date=22 April 2022 |website=[[Volvo Bus]] }}</ref> were introduced into service in July 2018. The project was funded partly by Transdev (£1.7&nbsp;million), with a further £2.25&nbsp;million of funding granted from the Government's Low Emission Bus Scheme.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.smmt.co.uk/2017/02/harrogate-to-get-electric-bus-fleet/|title=Harrogate to get electric bus fleet|date=6 February 2017|website=Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders|access-date=13 July 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://transportdesigned.com/power-people-harrogates-electrics-live/|title=Power to the people! Harrogate's Electrics are live|last=Harrison|first=Matt|date=29 July 2018|website=Transport Designed|access-date=11 March 2020}}</ref> Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop announcements.


The Harrogate Electrics network encompasses the company's local routes within Harrogate – the 2 to [[Bilton, Harrogate|Bilton]], the 3 to Jennyfield, the 4 to King Edwin Park, and the 6 to Pannal Ash and Beckwith Knowle Business Park. The 2 and 3 operate at a frequency of every 20 minutes, the 4 operates every hour, and the 6 operates every 30 minutes.
The Harrogate Electrics network encompasses the company's local routes within Harrogate – the 2 to [[Bilton, Harrogate|Bilton]], the 3 to Jennyfield, the 4 to King Edwin Park, and the 6 to Pannal Ash and Beckwith Knowle Business Park. The 2 and 3 operate at a frequency of every 20 minutes, the 4 operates every hour, and the 6 operates every 30 minutes.


In October 2018, the 24 to [[Pateley Bridge]] became mainly electric-bus operated, with 2 battery-electric [[Optare Solo#EV|Optare Solo SR EVs]] branded in the Harrogate Electrics livery allocated for the route,<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 2018 |title=DalesBus News |url=https://bettertransport.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/legacy-files/18.10.04.dalesbus.pdf |website=Campaign for Better Transport}}</ref> however these buses have since been withdrawn from use.
⚫
=== The 1 ===
⚫
The 1 brand encompasses a group of routes (1, 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D), which operate between Harrogate and [[Knaresborough]] via [[Starbeck]]. Routes operate at a combined ten minute frequency between Harrogate and Knaresborough, with services extending at a reduced frequency to housing estates within Knaresborough – Aspin (1A), Eastfield (1B), Carmires (1C) and The Pastures (1D). The non-suffixed route 1 is curtailed to serve Harrogate and Starbeck only.


⚫
===The 1===
Services are operated by a fleet of [[Wright Eclipse|Wright Eclipse Urban]] bodied [[Volvo B7RLE]] single-deck vehicles, dedicatedly branded for the route in a two-tone red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop information.
[[File:Transdev Harrogate Bus Company 1004 - BV74 NEO.jpg|thumb|[[Mercedes-Benz eCitaro]] on route 1A in Harrogate in December 2024]]
⚫
The 1 brand encompasses a group of routes (1, 1A, 1B and 1C), which operate between Harrogate and [[Knaresborough]] via [[Starbeck]]. Routes operate at a combined ten minute frequency between Harrogate and Knaresborough, with services extending at a reduced frequency to housing estates within Knaresborough – Aspin (1A), Eastfield (1B), and Carmires/The Pastures (1C). The non-suffixed route 1 serves Harrogate, Starbeck, and Knaresborough only.


Since November 2024, services are operated by a fleet of [[Mercedes-Benz Citaro#Battery_version_/_eCitaro|Mercedes-Benz eCitaros]] in a red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop information.<ref name=":4" />
⚫
=== The 7 ===

⚫
===The 7===
{{Easy CSS image crop
⚫
|image = 20190707-Transdev-1855.jpg
|desired_width = 220
|crop_left_perc = 29
|crop_right_perc = 5
|crop_top_perc = 41
|crop_bottom_perc = 17
|caption = A route 7 branded [[Wright Eclipse#Second_generation_(2008–2015)|Wright Eclipse Urban 2]] in [[Clifford, West Yorkshire|Clifford]] in July 2019
}}
The 7 runs between Harrogate and Leeds via [[Wetherby]], [[Boston Spa]] and [[Seacroft]] at an hourly frequency.
The 7 runs between Harrogate and Leeds via [[Wetherby]], [[Boston Spa]] and [[Seacroft]] at an hourly frequency.


Services are operated by a fleet of [[Wright Eclipse|Wright Eclipse Urban 2]] bodied [[Volvo B7RLE]] single-deck vehicles, dedicatedly branded for the route in a two-tone red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next stop information.
Since December 2024, services are operated by a fleet of [[Mercedes-Benz Citaro#Battery_version_/_eCitaro|Mercedes-Benz eCitaros]] in a red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop information.
[[File:Transdev Harrogate '36' 3639 - BF67 GOA.jpg|thumb|203x203px|36-branded [[Volvo B5TL]] [[Wright Gemini 3]]]]


=== The 36 ===
===The 36===
{{For|more information about this service|Harrogate bus route 36}} The 36 is one of the group's flagship services, running between Leeds and Harrogate via [[Harewood, West Yorkshire|Harewood]] up to every ten minutes, with three buses per hour extending to [[Ripon]] via [[Ripley, North Yorkshire|Ripley]].
{{For|more information about this service|Harrogate bus route 36}}
[[File:Transdev Harrogate '36' 3639 - BF67 GOA.jpg|thumb|203x203px|A route 36 branded [[Wright Gemini 3]] in Harrogate in August 2022]]
The 36 is one of the group's flagship services, running between Leeds and Harrogate via [[Harewood, West Yorkshire|Harewood]] up to every ten minutes, and extending to [[Ripon]] via [[Ripley, North Yorkshire|Ripley]] every 30 minutes.


Services are operated by a fleet of high-specification [[Wright Gemini 3]] bodied [[Volvo B5TL]] double-deck vehicles, dedicatedly branded for the route in a two-tone black and red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging, coach-style seating with a 2+1 arrangement upstairs, an on-board library and audio-visual next stop information.<ref>{{cite web |date=26 January 2016 |title=Transdev Harrogate redefines the 36 |url=https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/transdev-harrogate-redefines-36/ |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=Bus & Coach Buyer }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=25 January 2016 |title=Route 36 re-launched |url=https://cbwmagazine.com/22748/ |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=CBW }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=19 July 2021 |title=The 36: Riding, Redefined |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/_/36-riding-redefined |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref>
Services are operated by a fleet of high-specification [[Wright Gemini 3]] bodied [[Volvo B5TL]] double-deck vehicles, dedicatedly branded for the route in a two-tone black and red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging, coach-style seating with a 2+1 arrangement upstairs, an on-board library and audio-visual next stop information.<ref>{{cite web |date=26 January 2016 |title=Transdev Harrogate redefines the 36 |url=https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/transdev-harrogate-redefines-36/ |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=Bus & Coach Buyer }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=25 January 2016 |title=Route 36 re-launched |url=https://cbwmagazine.com/22748/ |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=CBW }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=19 July 2021 |title=The 36: Riding, Redefined |url=https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/_/36-riding-redefined |access-date=14 March 2023 |website=Transdev}}</ref>

=== X98/X99 ===
The X98 runs between Deighton Bar, [[Wetherby]] and Leeds via [[Collingham, West Yorkshire|Collingham]] and [[Scarcroft]] during the day, while the X99 starts at Wetherby and in addition runs through [[Linton, West Yorkshire|Linton]] and [[East Keswick]]. Both routes each run every hour, which combined makes buses from Wetherby to Leeds run every 30 minutes.


==Fleet and operations==
==Fleet and operations==
=== Depots ===
===Depots===
The former [[West Yorkshire Road Car Company]] depot at Grove Park in Harrogate was sold for redevelopment in the early 1990s. Following which Harrogate & District Travel operated from two depots; minibuses being based at Camwal Road in Starbeck and conventional buses at Manse Lane in [[Knaresborough]].
⚫
As of April 2022, the company operates from a single depot at [[Starbeck]].


Both depots soon became too small to accommodate an increasing fleet and the former Vibroplant depot on Prospect Road in Starbeck was purchased. The whole fleet was then operated from a single site, with the exception of one vehicle that remained out-stationed at Upper Nidderdale High School in [[Pateley Bridge]].
⚫
=== Vehicles ===

As of March 2024 , the fleet consists of 62 buses.{{citation needed|date=March 2024}} The fleet consists of diesel-powered and battery-electric single and double-deck buses manufactured by [[Wrightbus]], and [[Volvo Buses|Volvo]].
⚫
{{As of|June 2024}}, the company continues to operate from the single depot on Prospect Road in [[Starbeck]].

⚫
===Vehicles===
{{As of|June 2024}}, the fleet consists of 57 diesel-powered and battery-electric single and double-deck buses, manufactured by [[Mercedes-Benz buses|Mercedes-Benz]], [[Optare]], [[Volvo Buses|Volvo]], [[Wrightbus]]/Volvo, and [[East Lancashire Coachbuilders|East Lancs]]/[[Scania AB|Scania]].{{Citation needed|reason=Need to find a usable source|date=June 2024}}


==Notes==
==Notes==
Line 110: Line 165:
* {{commons-inline}}
* {{commons-inline}}
* [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/02605399 Transdev Blazefield Limited] on Companies House
* [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/02605399 Transdev Blazefield Limited] on Companies House
* [https://www.transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate/services The Harrogate Bus Company] website
* [https://transdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/ The Harrogate Bus Company] website

⚫
{{Bus companies in Yorkshire}}
{{Transdev}}


⚫
{{Bus companies in Yorkshire}}{{Transdev Blazefield}}
[[Category:Bus operators in North Yorkshire]]
[[Category:Bus operators in North Yorkshire]]
[[Category:Companies based in Harrogate]]
[[Category:Companies based in Harrogate]]

Latest revision as of 08:15, 20 December 2024

The Harrogate Bus Company
Harrogate Bus Company Mercedes-Benz eCitaro battery electric bus at Harrogate bus station in December 2024
ParentTransdev Blazefield
FoundedNovember 1906; 118 years ago (1906-11)
HeadquartersHarrogate, North Yorkshire
England
Service area
Service typePublic transport
StationsHarrogate Bus Station Knaresborough Bus Station
Fleet57 (as of June 2024)[citation needed]
Managing DirectorHenri Rohard[1]
Websitetransdevbus.co.uk/the-harrogate-bus-company/

The Harrogate Bus Company operates both local and regional bus services in North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire, England. It is a subsidiary of Transdev Blazefield.

History

[edit]

In November 1906, The Harrogate Road Car Company was formed. Initially operating steam-powered buses, the company adopted conventionally-fuelled petrol buses in 1911.

In 1924, the company was absorbed into Tilling & British Automobile Traction and renamed the Harrogate & District Road Car Company. Following the company's expansion, it was further renamed West Yorkshire Road Car Company in 1927, to reflect the wider service area provided.

In 1948, along with other companies that were then part of the Tilling Group, West Yorkshire Road Car Company was nationalised.

In 1968, West Yorkshire Road Car Company became a subsidiary of the National Bus Company.

In 1987, West Yorkshire Road Car Company was sold in a management buyout to the AJS Group, owned by former East Yorkshire Motor Services managing director, Alan Stephenson. The business was split into smaller companies in December 1988, one of which became Harrogate & District Travel.

Following the deregulation of bus services in 1986, Harrogate Independent Travel was set up by a number of West Yorkshire Road Car Company drivers, in a bid to challenge their former employer. The company was subsequently purchased by AJS Group in April 1989.[2]

In August 1991, Harrogate & District Travel was included in the purchase of AJS Group by Blazefield Group, following the sale of seven of the company's eight remaining bus firms at the time – a deal valued at £2.2 million.[3]

In October 1996, the company further expanded, following the transfer of Cowie Group's operations in the cathedral city of Ripon.[4]

In April 2005, the company was awarded the contract to operate service 767, which ran between Harrogate and Leeds Bradford Airport. The contract was subsequently awarded to Dales & District in April 2010. The route is now served by the Flyer A2 service, operated by Transdev York & Country. It was introduced in September 2020, as part of a joint partnership between Leeds Bradford Airport, Transdev Blazefield and West Yorkshire Combined Authority.[5][6][7][8][9]

In January 2006, French-based operator Transdev acquired the Blazefield Group, along with 305 vehicles.[10][11]

A Transdev in Harrogate Nidderdale Branch branded Wright Renown bodied Volvo B10BLE in Harrogate, operating service 24 in August 2011

In 2010, the company was rebranded under the name Transdev in Harrogate. As part of this, a new butterscotch and burgundy livery was introduced across the fleet, with the exception of the double-decker Wright Eclipse Gemini bodied Volvo B7TL vehicles dedicatedly branded for the company's Leeds to Harrogate and Ripon route 36, which received a revision to its original black, red and grey livery in 2009.

In 2011, the Wright Eclipse Gemini route 36 fleet underwent a refurbishment program. The route received a new identity – named ‘36 City Connect’ – and a new red and black livery was introduced, alongside the addition of new leather coach-style seats, and the introduction of a 2+1 seating arrangement behind the staircase upstairs. The buses were also fitted with new new front fascias, as seen on their facelifted second generation model, and new powertrains.[citation needed]

The company also became involved in a bus war with local independent operator Connexionsbuses in 2011. It concerned bus services operating in and around the market town of Wetherby.[12][13] In the same year, a retendering exercise by North Yorkshire County Council saw all of the company's council contracted routes transferred to other operators. An exception was service X59, which operated between Harrogate and Skipton via Bolton Abbey. Initially, the service was operated commercially and at a reduced frequency,[14] prior to its eventual withdrawal in March 2013.[15]

A Harrogate Connect branded Optare Versa in Harrogate, operating service 3 in September 2015

In 2012, the company introduced eight brand-new single-decker Optare Versa vehicles to serve local routes within Harrogate. These buses operated on routes 2 (to Bilton), 3 (to Jennyfield), and 6 (to Pannal Ash) under the new brand name Harrogate Connect,[16][17] with the original butterscotch and burgundy livery being revised and replaced by a new red and black colour scheme. During 2013, the remainder of the fleet underwent a transformation. All services (except for the dedicatedly branded route 36) adopted the Harrogate Connect identity.

A Harrogate Bus Company branded Wright Eclipse Gemini 2 bodied Volvo B9TL in Leeds, operating service 7 in May 2018

In 2016, the company underwent a significant transformation. As part of this, the company rebranded as The Harrogate Bus Company,[18][19] and initiated a fleet modernisation program. The first phase involved the delivery of fourteen brand new high-specification Wright Gemini 3 bodied Volvo B5TL double-decker buses for operation on route 36. These new buses replaced older Wright Eclipse Gemini vehicles, and the route received a new identity – named ‘Riding Redefined’ – along with a new two-tone red and black livery.[20][21] The new fleet entered service in late January.[22]

Later that year, a new two-tone red livery was also introduced for the standard fleet, and ten Wright Eclipse Urban bodied Volvo B7RLE single-deckers were refurbished for operation on route 1,[23] including six existing buses and four new transfers from other Transdev subsidiaries. These, along with two Wright Eclipse Gemini bodied Volvo B7TL and B9TLs recently replaced from the 36 fleet, were upgraded with modern passenger amenities such as WiFi connectivity, USB charging capabilities and audio/visual next stop information, and were also fitted with superchargers to reduce NOx emissions. Additionally, the Eclipse Urbans were equipped with new front fascias, as seen on their facelifted second generation model. The refurbished Wright Eclipse Geminis entered service in June 2016,[24] while the Eclipse Urbans entered service on route 1 on 17 July,[25] replacing older Wright Renown bodied Volvo B10BLE single-deckers that were branded for the route.

In July 2017, a new brand was introduced for the route 770/771, resulting in the services being renumbered and rebranded as the “Superior 70/71”.[26] The fleet underwent significant upgrades, with Wright Eclipse Urban 2 bodied Volvo B7RLE single-deck vehicles transferred from Transdev’s Burnley operations and refurbished to match the WiFi connectivity, USB charging capabilities, and audio/visual next stop information features as seen on the refurbished route 1 buses. On 23 July, the new fleet commenced service on the route,[26][27] gradually replacing the entire existing fleet of Volvo B10BLE Wright Renown vehicles, which were phased out of service in Harrogate by 2018. However, in April 2018, due to the loss of council funding for the 70 to Connexionsbuses,[28] the 71 was once again renumbered and rebranded, now operating as the “Simple 7".[29]

In partnership with DalesBus, the service between Harrogate and Skipton was reintroduced in May 2021 – the first direct service between the two towns for eight years.[30][31][a] As of April 2022, four buses per day operate on summer Saturdays.

In 2024, the company's entire fleet will be converted to operation with battery-electric buses. Partially funded by the UK government's Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme, 20 Mercedes-Benz eCitaro single-deck vehicles and 19 Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV double-deck vehicles – worth £21 million collectively – have been ordered, with the first Enviro400EV revealed at an unveiling event in June.[32][33] They were announced to be expected to start entering service from early September.[34][35][36][37][38] The first five eCitaros entered service on 18 November on route 1.[39]

2024 also saw the introduction of route 4, a service linking King Edwin Park housing estate with Harrogate.[40] In October 2024, route 1D to The Pastures estate of Knaresborough was merged with the Carmires route 1C.[41]

Services and branding

[edit]
A selection of historic buses and liveries

The Harrogate Bus Company

[edit]

Following the rebrand of the company in 2016, a two-tone red livery was introduced for local bus services in and around the spa town of Harrogate. As well as serving as a corporate livery, it was also used as a base for dedicated route brands such as the 1, the 7, and the Harrogate Electrics network.

In November 2024, the Harrogate Bus Company brand underwent a refresh. As part of this, a fleet of battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaros were introduced, replacing the company's diesel powered Wright Eclipse vehicles. Additionally, a new logo and standard red livery was adopted, and dedicated route-specific branding for routes 1 and 7 was discontinued.[39]

Alongside routes 1, 7 and Harrogate Electrics network, the company operates several other services including the 21 (Knaresborough to Boroughbridge and Roecliffe), the 24 (Harrogate to Pateley Bridge), the 59 (Harrogate to Skipton), and the X98/X99 (Wetherby to Leeds).

Harrogate Electrics

[edit]
A Harrogate Electrics branded Volvo 7900e at Harrogate Bus Station, in January 2019

Local services operating in and around Harrogate are operated by a fleet of eight high-specification, battery-electric Volvo 7900 single-deck vehicles in dedicated branding. The vehicles, which were announced in February 2017,[42] were introduced into service in July 2018. The project was funded partly by Transdev (£1.7 million), with a further £2.25 million of funding granted from the Government's Low Emission Bus Scheme.[43][44] Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop announcements.

The Harrogate Electrics network encompasses the company's local routes within Harrogate – the 2 to Bilton, the 3 to Jennyfield, the 4 to King Edwin Park, and the 6 to Pannal Ash and Beckwith Knowle Business Park. The 2 and 3 operate at a frequency of every 20 minutes, the 4 operates every hour, and the 6 operates every 30 minutes.

In October 2018, the 24 to Pateley Bridge became mainly electric-bus operated, with 2 battery-electric Optare Solo SR EVs branded in the Harrogate Electrics livery allocated for the route,[45] however these buses have since been withdrawn from use.

The 1

[edit]
Mercedes-Benz eCitaro on route 1A in Harrogate in December 2024

The 1 brand encompasses a group of routes (1, 1A, 1B and 1C), which operate between Harrogate and Knaresborough via Starbeck. Routes operate at a combined ten minute frequency between Harrogate and Knaresborough, with services extending at a reduced frequency to housing estates within Knaresborough – Aspin (1A), Eastfield (1B), and Carmires/The Pastures (1C). The non-suffixed route 1 serves Harrogate, Starbeck, and Knaresborough only.

Since November 2024, services are operated by a fleet of Mercedes-Benz eCitaros in a red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop information.[39]

The 7

[edit]
A route 7 branded Wright Eclipse Urban 2 in Clifford in July 2019

The 7 runs between Harrogate and Leeds via Wetherby, Boston Spa and Seacroft at an hourly frequency.

Since December 2024, services are operated by a fleet of Mercedes-Benz eCitaros in a red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging and audio-visual next-stop information.

The 36

[edit]
For more information about this service, see Harrogate bus route 36.
A route 36 branded Wright Gemini 3 in Harrogate in August 2022

The 36 is one of the group's flagship services, running between Leeds and Harrogate via Harewood up to every ten minutes, and extending to Ripon via Ripley every 30 minutes.

Services are operated by a fleet of high-specification Wright Gemini 3 bodied Volvo B5TL double-deck vehicles, dedicatedly branded for the route in a two-tone black and red livery. Features include free WiFi, USB charging, coach-style seating with a 2+1 arrangement upstairs, an on-board library and audio-visual next stop information.[46][47][48]

Fleet and operations

[edit]

Depots

[edit]

The former West Yorkshire Road Car Company depot at Grove Park in Harrogate was sold for redevelopment in the early 1990s. Following which Harrogate & District Travel operated from two depots; minibuses being based at Camwal Road in Starbeck and conventional buses at Manse Lane in Knaresborough.

Both depots soon became too small to accommodate an increasing fleet and the former Vibroplant depot on Prospect Road in Starbeck was purchased. The whole fleet was then operated from a single site, with the exception of one vehicle that remained out-stationed at Upper Nidderdale High School in Pateley Bridge.

As of June 2024, the company continues to operate from the single depot on Prospect Road in Starbeck.

Vehicles

[edit]

As of June 2024, the fleet consists of 57 diesel-powered and battery-electric single and double-deck buses, manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, Optare, Volvo, Wrightbus/Volvo, and East Lancs/Scania.[citation needed]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ The service was reintroduced as service 59.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Our new electric buses". Transdev. 16 August 2023. Archived from the original on 17 August 2023. Retrieved 17 August 2023.
  2. ^ "AJS swallows Challenger". Commercial Motor. 20 April 1989. p. 18.
  3. ^ "AJS sells remaining bus firms". Commercial Motor. 8 August 1991. p. 16.
  4. ^ Jenkinson, Keith A. (1999). Small is Beautiful: The Story of the AJS Group and Blazefield Holdings. Bradford: Autobus Review. ISBN 0907834426.
  5. ^ Dougall, Emily (8 September 2020). "Transdev Flyer takes off to Leeds Bradford Airport". Coach & Bus Week. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  6. ^ "Transdev launches Flyer buses, connecting Yorkshire with Leeds Bradford Airport". Harrogate Informer. 3 September 2020. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  7. ^ Chalmers, Graham (1 September 2020). "New Flyer buses to 'revolutionise' Harrogate passengers' travel at Leeds Bradford airport". Harrogate Advertiser. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  8. ^ "Transdev Flyer airport venture takes to the roads in Yorkshire". Routeone. 2 September 2020. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  9. ^ Peat, Chris (1 September 2020). "Transdev's Flyer takes off". Bus & Coach Buyer. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  10. ^ "Transdev acquires Blazefield Group". Bus & Coach Professional. 7 January 2006. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  11. ^ Briggs, Ian (9 January 2006). "A new stop for Blazefield". Yorkshire Post. Archived from the original on 15 April 2016. Retrieved 21 April 2022.
  12. ^ "Harrogate to Wetherby bus war breaks out". BBC News. 4 July 2011. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  13. ^ "War erupts over bus service". Harrogate Advertiser. 9 July 2011. Archived from the original on 5 August 2016. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  14. ^ "No plans to restore X59 bus service". Craven Herald & Pioneer. 5 June 2011. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  15. ^ Tate, Lesley (7 February 2013). "Skipton to Harrogate bus service is axed". Craven Herald & Pioneer. Retrieved 11 March 2020.
  16. ^ "Top ten Versas for Transdev Blazefield". Optare. 10 May 2012. Retrieved 13 March 2023.
  17. ^ "Latest News – Welcome to HARROGATE CONNECT ~ Transdev". www.harrogatebus.co.uk. 7 August 2012. Archived from the original on 7 August 2012. Retrieved 16 March 2023.
  18. ^ "Harrogate Bus Company celebrates 110 years of service". Coach & Bus Week. No. 1253. 16 August 2016. p. 10.
  19. ^ "Transdev rolls out two more rebrands". Buses. No. 738. September 2016. p. 9.
  20. ^ "Route 36 re-launched". CBW. 25 January 2016. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  21. ^ "The 36: Riding, Redefined". Transdev. 19 July 2021. Archived from the original on 14 March 2023. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  22. ^ "RIDING. REDEFINED. The new 36 has arrived". Transdev in Harrogate. 22 January 2016. Archived from the original on 29 June 2016. Retrieved 19 August 2024.
  23. ^ "Latest News – Amazing buses for the 1 ~ Transdev". harrogatebus.co.uk. 18 May 2017. Archived from the original on 18 May 2017. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  24. ^ @harrogatebus (2 June 2016). "Our new #HarrogateBusCompany brand is hitting the road soon, celebrating our 110 years & why we're proud to be local" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  25. ^ @harrogatebus (17 July 2016). "Your buses on the 1 to #Knaresborough are getting an amazing makeover. Two are out there now - hope you like them!" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  26. ^ a b "Latest News – Superior 70 & 71 – now better than ever ~ Transdev". harrogatebus.co.uk. 9 September 2017. Archived from the original on 9 September 2017. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  27. ^ "Latest News – Changes to our buses in Harrogate from Sunday 23 July ~ Transdev". harrogatebus.co.uk. 2 July 2017. Archived from the original on 2 July 2017. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  28. ^ "Revision to X70 to include Follifoot and Rudding Park – Connexions Buses". 19 September 2018. Archived from the original on 19 September 2018. Retrieved 16 March 2023.
  29. ^ "Latest News – Simple, fast and direct – 70 & 71 become 7 from 15 April ~ Transdev". harrogatebus.co.uk. 25 March 2018. Archived from the original on 25 March 2018. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
  30. ^ Maguire, Brogan (29 April 2021). "Launch of new scenic bus route from Harrogate to Skipton every Saturday". Harrogate Advertiser. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  31. ^ Tate, Lesley (20 May 2021). "Summer bus services to Harrogate and Malham get underway this weekend". Craven Herald & Pioneer. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  32. ^ "Harrogate bus firm unveil brand new electric buses". Your Harrogate. Retrieved 22 June 2024.
  33. ^ Chalmers, Graham (18 June 2024). "Crowds get a glimpse of Harrogate's first all-electric double decker as a revolution in the roads begins in style". Harrogate Advertiser. Retrieved 22 June 2024.
  34. ^ "Our new electric buses". Transdev. 16 August 2023. Archived from the original on 17 August 2023. Retrieved 17 August 2023.
  35. ^ Plummer, John (16 August 2023). "Harrogate Bus Company places £21m order for 39 electric buses". The Stray Ferret. Retrieved 17 August 2023.
  36. ^ "Transdev orders eCitaro and Enviro400EV for Harrogate". routeone. 16 August 2023. Retrieved 17 August 2023.
  37. ^ Chalmers, Graham (20 May 2024). "This is when Harrogate new £21 million electric bus fleet will be launched and what passengers can expect". Harrogate Advertiser.
  38. ^ Halford, Paul (18 June 2024). "New bus for iconic Harrogate 36 service is 'another level'". routeone. Retrieved 22 June 2024.
  39. ^ a b c "meet the sparkling, all-new 1 for you!". Transdev Blazefield. 18 November 2024. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
  40. ^ "changes at Harrogate from 7 April". Transdev. 7 April 2024. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  41. ^ "changes to our buses in Harrogate from 27 Oct". Transdev Blazefield. 27 October 2024. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
  42. ^ "Volvo receives order for eight electric buses to Harrogate in the UK". Volvo Bus. 6 February 2017. Retrieved 22 April 2022.
  43. ^ "Harrogate to get electric bus fleet". Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders. 6 February 2017. Retrieved 13 July 2019.
  44. ^ Harrison, Matt (29 July 2018). "Power to the people! Harrogate's Electrics are live". Transport Designed. Retrieved 11 March 2020.
  45. ^ "DalesBus News" (PDF). Campaign for Better Transport. September 2018.
  46. ^ "Transdev Harrogate redefines the 36". Bus & Coach Buyer. 26 January 2016. Retrieved 14 March 2023.
  47. ^ "Route 36 re-launched". CBW. 25 January 2016. Retrieved 14 March 2023.
  48. ^ "The 36: Riding, Redefined". Transdev. 19 July 2021. Retrieved 14 March 2023.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Harrogate_Bus_Company&oldid=1264075412"