Chalkwell Coach Hire has extended its Island Buses brand and introduced what it describes as “an eye-catching new livery” to several home-to-school services between the Isle of Sheppey and Sittingbourne. It follows the Kent operator’s takeover of a number of key services on Sheppey from Arriva earlier this year.
The Alexander Dennis Enviro400s used on the home-to-school services were upgraded to Euro VI prior to coming to Chalkwell. Dealership Ensignbus converted the buses to single door layout, with the overall process representing “a hefty outlay” to upgrade the services, says Chalkwell Managing Director Roland Eglinton.
Also fitted are graphics designed by Gwynne Graphics, which Chalkwell has worked with for some years, and the Island Buses logo. Chalkwell has additionally launched Passenger’s MyTrip app into its operation. It means that parents and children can track buses in real time and purchase tickets via their mobile devices.
Adds Mr Eglinton: “We take a lot of children to school in safety every day. The challenge is to constantly innovate and improve what we do. The new livery and smart vehicles really do make an impact, and we have had a lot of complimentary feedback.”
