New fleet takes to the road

New University of Bristol and First West of England bus parked at Clifton Downs

17 January 2018

The University of Bristol and First West of England have launched a new fleet of buses for students, staff and the Bristol public.

Last week, a new U1 fleet of nine low-emission, double decker buses took to the road. The new buses, decked out in University colours, feature twin doors for faster boarding and alighting, free WiFi and USB charging points for passengers and helpful onboard video screens which announce the next stop and provide service information. The buses also meet the most recent Euro VI emission standards, contributing to improvements to air quality across Bristol.

The fleet has been introduced as part of a five-year partnership between the University of Bristol and First West of England.

Patrick Finch, Bursar and Director of Estates at the University of Bristol, said: “The University is delighted to be operating its new partnership to deliver bus services with First West of England. The upgraded service provides our students with a range of additional benefits, delivered by a new fleet of vehicles. The new buses are also better for the environment of the City of Bristol, helping the University to meet its sustainability commitments.”

James Freeman, Managing Director, First West of England, added: "First is delighted to continue to celebrate success with the operation of University of Bristol Service U1.

"First looks forward to continuing its partnership with the University over the coming years and delivering further improvements to this essential transport service for students, as well as staff and the general public.”

The University’s Director of Residential and Hospitality Services, Simon Bray, said:“The new U1 fleet, and a change to the timetable, has enhanced the reliability and punctuality of the transport service we offer to our students. It’s important to note that anyone can use this service, so it helps to improve the public transport offer to communities along the route.”

Nearly 6,000 students living in University accommodation have downloaded passes for the U1 to their smartphones and other passengers can use a contactless payment method to travel on the service. The new agreement also gives University of Bristol staff and students access to discounted travel on a range of other First bus services in the city.

Further information

The U1 provides a frequent service throughout the day and night between University residences at Stoke Bishop and the main Campus, extending at off-peak times to the city centre. Find out more about travel and transport at the University of Bristol.

First West of England covers the cities of Bristol and Bath in the North, the coastal resort of Weston-super-Mare in the West parts of West Wiltshire in the East and Glastonbury, Street and Wells in the South.