Swindon bus operator Thamesdown Transport is buying 10 new buses for £1.4m – its first investment in new vehicles for four years.
The single-decker, 39-seat buses, which are replacing older vehicles, will be delivered to in two phases. The first four will arrive in March and April and will be used on route 16, which operates from Fleming Way to Great Western Hospital via New College.
The other six will be ordered later this year subject to the approval of Thamesdown’s board. 
Thamesdown said the buses, all made by Alexander Dennis, will increase passenger comfort as they feature high-backed seats, pictured, along with free wi-fi.
Thamesdown commercial director Peter Oliver said: “These vehicles represent a significant investment for Thamesdown and the importance we place on passenger comfort and vehicle performance.
“They strike a good balance between affordability and quality, have an excellent reputation for reliability and provide good customer comfort.”
While the first four buses will have standard diesel engines, those arriving later in the year will be powered by the latest Euro 6 diesel engine, which have lower emissions, Thamesdown said.
The company, which is supporting this year’s celebrations marking the 175th of modern Swindon, will name the first new bus to arrive Sir Daniel Gooch in honour of the pioneering Great Western Railway locomotive superintendent who identified the town as the site for the company’s railworks.
Mr Oliver added: “We’re pleased to be involved in the forthcoming Swindon 175 celebrations and so are looking forward to seeing Sir Daniel Gooch, who was the crucial player in bringing GWR to Swindon, taking passengers around the town.”
The company has also invested in an engine upgrade on a number of older vehicles in its 85-venicle fleet, which will improve reliability.
