The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure has confirmed that it will not be seeking to introduce articulated buses in the Isle of Man.
Hon Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure said: ‘As I have said on many occasions, Public Transport is facing very tough financial targets. I have also said that we would explore all options for increasing efficiency and reducing cost before considering service reductions or price increases. The articulated buses were considered as one of many options to reduce the cost of providing public transport services in the Isle of Man. The opportunity was taken to demonstrate the potential and following the extensive trial and independent evaluation, the Council of Ministers have agreed that they should not be progressed at the present time.’
The Minister continued: ‘The trial period proved that articulated buses present no greater safety concerns for passengers or other road users than any other type of bus. However, resources are not currently available to carry out the necessary work to modernise the Island’s road infrastructure for public transport vehicles. Whilst this work is not essential immediately, it would be if articulated buses were to be introduced.’
The Minister concluded: ‘The Department is continuing to explore alternative options to deliver the level of savings required whilst still being able to deliver services.’
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