Bus firm's fleet made 'low floor'

A bus firm has converted its fleet of 34 vehicles to "low-floor", allowing wheelchair users easier access.

Newbury Buses said it withdrew two double-decker buses with step entrances to achieve its 100% status.

Low-floor buses, originally a German concept, have step-free layouts at the entrance and exit, and a flat-level floor between those doorway positions.

A government target set in 2000 requires bus operators to have 50% of their bus fleet "low floor" by 2010.

Newbury Buses manager Norman Fryer-Saxby said: "All our buses are fitted with ramps that drivers can unfold and the front of the bus can be 'made to kneel,' which lowers the step height.

"And, with a flat floor wheelchair users can easily occupy designated space for them.

"Children's buggies can also be pushed on and off the bus more easily."