New Arrivals

Beccles Bus Station: Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

In the last two weeks there has been exiting news for independent bus company BorderBus with three new arrivals. Firstly lets start with the Optare Metrodecker which is on loan. I could say this is a demonstrator bus however I would be wrong as it's more of a prototype. Only  four are in existence and as of yet there are none in production. The prototypes have been lent to different bus operations for appraisal and feedback. 

Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

I caught up with the Optare Metrodecker in Suffolk on the route 144 between Norwich and Southwold. The first impression when you board is there it is very modem bus with an selection of different features. After that I noticed there was something different about the downstairs of the Optare Metrodecker, it is that the emergency exit is on the nearside of the bus. 

The nearside of the emergency exit : Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

The rear seating downstairs looks rather awful, however at the same time it feels spacious. The seats are rather comfy with full leather and there are 32 seats downstairs, which is key for this bus. 

The lower deck front : Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

Rear lower deck : Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

The upper deck has been very well designed, with 51 seats and I found it very spacious. A key point to highlight is the curved front window which enables extra light into the bus. In addition I note that there are no pillars at the front obstructing passengers views, when comparing this bus to the Wrightbus StreetDecks. 

The front top deck : Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU 

Rear top deck : Optare Metrodecker YJ65EPU

The last two new arrivals for BorderBus are in the form of an ex Arriva London Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini's which will be used on the 146 route and school contracts. However only one Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini has arrived so far. Firstly it needs its vinyls applying and pre-service checks need to be undertaken it is unlikely that it will be on the road until tomorrow. My thanks go to Peter for supplying me the photographs of the first Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini for BorderBus. 

Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini LJ03MJU

Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini LJ03MJU