Go-Ahead has renamed its Oxford Bus Group subsidiary as Go Thames Valley. It reflects what the business says is network expansion and readiness for local government reorganisation that will change the make-up of stakeholder local transport authorities.
Go Thames Valley consists of operating companies Carousel Buses, City Sightseeing Oxford, Oxford Bus Company, Pearces Coaches, Pulhams Coaches, and Thames Travel. While a new overarching name has been created, each individual business will retain its established brand.
Although local government reorganisation is still underway, Go-Ahead says that “by introducing Go Thames Valley new, the transition for customers and stakeholders will be seamless,” with the name better representing a network that captures Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and beyond. It sits above 540 vehicles and 1,300 staff.
Luke Marion continues as Managing Director of Go Thames Valley. Speaking about the change, he says: “The new name for our group of companies better reflects who we are as a business, our market position, and where we are going.
“This will provide greater clarity and longevity for us as we continue to develop our network and adjust to local government reorganisation. Go Thames Valley ensure that we are ready for devolution and are more relevant to the communities we service, while future planning and fuelling continued local growth.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for stakeholders to navigate the changes associated with local government restructure, and believe that this step will allow us to do just that.
“While each of our companies has its own history, identity and local connections, they share a common purpose: delivering safe, reliable and welcoming sustainable transport that supports our communities.”
Introduction of the Go Thames Valley name echoes similar nomenclature used for Go-Ahead bus businesses in other parts of the country. Operations in the Thames Valley have seen significant expansion in recent years, with coach operators – including Pulhams – purchased, and major growth recorded by the Carousel Buses undertaking.
