First Aberdeen

[alex397]

Sad to see the end of bendybuses in ordinary public service in the UK, and yet on continental Europe it’s becoming more popular. A real shame, as articulated buses are so much better for accessibility and loading times. The ‘narrow British roads’ excuse is just an excuse, as I’ve been on plenty on narrow medieval streets in the continent.
Time the dwell time between a continental articulated bus with three doors compared to a double decker with one door, and it’s a considerable difference. But for some reason we don’t mind that here.

 

[317 forever]

There are only 2 Citaros left in service 11106/13, which will last until next week, assuming that they do not pick up a defect. Most of the Citaros are sold, so they may not be around the depot for long.

I gather the Citaro bendi's are being replaced by the Electroliners.

 

[Jordan Adam]

Sad to see the end of bendybuses in ordinary public service in the UK, and yet on continental Europe it’s becoming more popular. A real shame, as articulated buses are so much better for accessibility and loading times. The ‘narrow British roads’ excuse is just an excuse, as I’ve been on plenty on narrow medieval streets in the continent.
Time the dwell time between a continental articulated bus with three doors compared to a double decker with one door, and it’s a considerable difference. But for some reason we don’t mind that here.

As an almost daily user of the 1/2 the Citaros were definitly far better suited to the route than any deckers were. One of the biggest issues the 1/2 has is that a lot of people get on along King Street and are only going about 5 minutes or less on the bus and are therefor reluctant to go upstairs, this was never an issue with the Artics as those same people would happily go right up to the rear of a B7LA or Citaro.

I've also noticed late running was far less common with the Citaros compared to the deckers likely because they could get past the busy stops much faster and make up time, albeit the E400s don't help this matter given most of them can barely shift their own weight on a flat road nevermind up a hill with passengers.

The ‘narrow British roads’ excuse is just an excuse, as I’ve been on plenty on narrow medieval streets in the continent.

The Artics when driven correctly are more maneuverable than a 12 metre single decker. Although the Citaros didn't venture from the 1/2 that much the previous B7LAs saw use on almost the entire network at some point in their lives.

I do think its a shame none of the B7LAs were saved given the type operated in Aberdeen for almost 21 years and were generally popular with drivers. With that said the Geminis and Streetdecks do overall feel like an upgrade to the vehicles that came before and especially compared to the Enviro400s which are dreadful in almost every way imaginable.

 

[TheGrandWazoo]

Sad to see the end of bendybuses in ordinary public service in the UK, and yet on continental Europe it’s becoming more popular. A real shame, as articulated buses are so much better for accessibility and loading times. The ‘narrow British roads’ excuse is just an excuse, as I’ve been on plenty on narrow medieval streets in the continent.
Time the dwell time between a continental articulated bus with three doors compared to a double decker with one door, and it’s a considerable difference. But for some reason we don’t mind that here.

The medieval roads argument is bunkum and operators know this. It was made popular by Boris, and we know his relationship with the truth.

The reality is that they cost a lot to buy, a lot to maintain and a huge amount to run. On the continent where operations don’t have the same commercial risk, then they can ignore the economic consequences in favour of speed benefits.

 

[Haribolover06]

As an almost daily user of the 1/2 the Citaros were definitly far better suited to the route than any deckers were. One of the biggest issues the 1/2 has is that a lot of people get on along King Street and are only going about 5 minutes or less on the bus and are therefor reluctant to go upstairs, this was never an issue with the Artics as those same people would happily go right up to the rear of a B7LA or Citaro.

I've also noticed late running was far less common with the Citaros compared to the deckers likely because they could get past the busy stops much faster and make up time, albeit the E400s don't help this matter given most of them can barely shift their own weight on a flat road nevermind up a hill with passengers.

The Artics when driven correctly are more maneuverable than a 12 metre single decker. Although the Citaros didn't venture from the 1/2 that much the previous B7LAs saw use on almost the entire network at some point in their lives.

I do think its a shame none of the B7LAs were saved given the type operated in Aberdeen for almost 21 years and were generally popular with drivers. With that said the Geminis and Streetdecks do overall feel like an upgrade to the vehicles that came before and especially compared to the Enviro400s which are dreadful in almost every way imaginable.

the citaros were regularly on the X27 before its withdrawal, and on some 3 and 3S services, usually the duty that was used for the lochside academy runs.

 

[scosutsut]

the E400s don't help this matter given most of them can barely shift their own weight on a flat road nevermind up a hill with passengers.

The medieval roads argument is bunkum and operators know this. It was made popular by Boris, and we know his relationship with the truth.

These comments both made me smile, our national ability to be scathing using largely benign language is utterly unrivalled

End of an era for Aberdeen, and for the country as a whole.

 

[Jordan Adam]

the citaros were regularly on the X27 before its withdrawal, and on some 3 and 3S services, usually the duty that was used for the lochside academy runs.

The Citaros have also done runs on the 8, 8A, 13, 15, 17 and 18. The only restrictions to the use of Artics in Aberdeen really were the termini at Culter and Hillhead. Although i know K1GRT did the 19 to Culter on a few rare occasions.

Around a decade ago the B7LAs were frequently on the 1/2, 3, 4, 11, 13, 18 and X40. There was also a period around 2008 when the W-FALs were being used on the 23. So it goes to show that they could be used network wide, not just on the 1/2.

 

[Volvodart]

The Citaros have also done runs on the 8, 8A, 13, 15, 17 and 18. The only restrictions to the use of Artics in Aberdeen really were the termini at Culter and Hillhead.

They did do Hillhead when the 1A briefly went there and one was on the 20 once.

 

[GusB]

They did do Hillhead when the 1A briefly went there and one was on the 20 once.

Is the turning space at Hellhead big enough to turn an artic?

 

[Volvodart]

Is the turning space at Hellhead big enough to turn an artic?

I only saw one in Old Aberdeen so I assume it did the full route. The other 2 I saw could easily have screened St Machar Drive if they were not going there.

 

[Robertj21a]

Is the turning space at Hellhead big enough to turn an artic?

Artics are easier to turn than a 12m rigid. It's only the front section that needs to turn, the 'trailer' simply follows it.

 

[Jordan Adam]

Is the turning space at Hellhead big enough to turn an artic?

The turning circle at Hillhead is larger than Ashwood but its a more awkward shape. It would be tight but it is possible.

I only saw one in Old Aberdeen so I assume it did the full route. The other 2 I saw could easily have screened St Machar Drive if they were not going there.

Now that its been mentioned i do recall seeing 10155 on the 1A to Hillhead once.

 

[Whiteway215]

Picture on Facebook showing 11114 southbound on A74M said to be heading to Bristol Airport

 

[Volvodart]

Picture on Facebook showing 11114 southbound on A74M said to be heading to Bristol Airport

Plus 11108.
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1/4/2025
33912/6 are reported to be en route to Glasgow today.

Again 1/4/2025

The Scottish Government has published a consultation document re bus open data, so anyone wanting First Scotland to provide the data they provide in England (live bus tracking on the bustimes.org map) may care to respond to the consultation.

The Scottish Bus Open Data Consultation - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space

Find and participate in consultations run by The Scottish Government

consult.gov.scot

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3/4/2025

11106/10 have left the depot, I assume First are taking them to the ferry terminal for onwards journey to Orkney. First have reprogrammed the destination displays to show"Shuttle Bus".

 

[Cesarcollie]

Plus 11108.
------

1/4/2025
33912/6 are reported to be en route to Glasgow today.

Again 1/4/2025

The Scottish Government has published a consultation document re bus open data, so anyone wanting First Scotland to provide the data they provide in England (live bus tracking on the bustimes.org map) may care to respond to the consultation.

The Scottish Bus Open Data Consultation - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space

Find and participate in consultations run by The Scottish Government

consult.gov.scot

------
3/4/2025

11106/10 have left the depot, I assume First are taking them to the ferry terminal for onwards journey to Orkney. First have reprogrammed the destination displays to show"Shuttle Bus".

The data operators provide in England is not ‘live bus tracking on bus times.org’. It’s an API data feed containing specific information about bus location and schedule which any information provider, whether that be bus times or google - is able to access.

 

[Volvodart]

Just a warning of you are coming to Aberdeen on a Saturday now, there are very few diesel double deckers out then. I noted only 33679 out early this morning.

 

[Volvodart]

Probably part of the wider standardisation policy within FirstGroup, too - they've been trying to reduce the number of different types at depots/divisions for a while now, and it's clear that the Enviro 300 will suit the needs of single-deck work at Aberdeen now.

Presumably this will also mean that some routes will be converted to double-deck, at least partially, as a result?

Aberdeen are losing all their Streetlites. It is probably an age related thing, as these were Aberdeen's newest diesel buses.

At the moment they are just regaining duties on routes that were partly hydrogen bus operated but returned to single deckers because Aberdeen had nothing else, but eventually they will be used on duties that were single decker operated. Because of the cost of hydrogen for them now, the hydrogen buses were only coming out late in the morning peak or on duties only out in the morning peak and then returning to the depot coming out for peak afternoon requirements, and only used Monday to Friday, when they were last used before the refuelling station closed, so it may be when they return this will be the factor used rather than specific routes.
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New post below:

Two of the ex Manchester Geminis are parked at the electric bus chargers today, 37459/545, which may indicate that they are going away. It is not necessarily a change of plan as a few are not needed now until the university returns in September. They are not where they were, but have not necessarily left and may just have been there for space reasons. The ex Manchester E400s are due to leave soon.

 

[AndrewTaylor95]

At the moment they are just regaining duties on routes that were partly hydrogen bus operated but returned to single deckers because Aberdeen had nothing else, but eventually they will be used on duties that were single decker operated. Because of the cost of hydrogen for them now, the hydrogen buses were only coming out late in the morning peak or on duties only out in the morning peak and then returning to the depot coming out for peak afternoon requirements, and only used Monday to Friday, when they were last used before the refuelling station closed, so it may be when they return this will be the factor used rather than specific routes.
------
New post below:

Two of the ex Manchester Geminis are parked at the electric bus chargers today, 37459/545, which may indicate that they are going away. It is not necessarily a change of plan as a few are not needed now until the university returns in September. They may not be going to Glasgow though.

Streetlites have turned up in Glasgow, The Gemini's will probably return to Glasgow as they where long term loans from Glasgow

 

[aswilliamsuk]

At the moment they are just regaining duties on routes that were partly hydrogen bus operated but returned to single deckers because Aberdeen had nothing else, but eventually they will be used on duties that were single decker operated. Because of the cost of hydrogen for them now, the hydrogen buses were only coming out late in the morning peak or on duties only out in the morning peak and then returning to the depot coming out for peak afternoon requirements, and only used Monday to Friday, when they were last used before the refuelling station closed, so it may be when they return this will be the factor used rather than specific routes.
------
New post below:

Two of the ex Manchester Geminis are parked at the electric bus chargers today, 37459/545, which may indicate that they are going away. It is not necessarily a change of plan as a few are not needed now until the university returns in September. They may not be going to Glasgow though.

Thanks for the updates. Just out of interest, are all of the new Electroliners in service now, and have any of the repowers entered service yet? (I know at least a few have begun heading north).

 

[Volvodart]

Thanks for the updates. Just out of interest, are all of the new Electroliners in service now, and have any of the repowers entered service yet? (I know at least a few have begun heading north).

No to both. 36664 has never been in service and is parked up. The first 2 repowers look ready for service but are parked up too. They are not yet branded with logos and purple lines, but I do not know if that is the reason.

 

[overthewater]

Did anyone see this, Its nice to see Shops demanding better access for buses.

All aboard for M&S? Bus route revamp request - Aberdeen Business News

Marks & Spencer (M&S) bosses are urging local bus operators and politicians to improve bus access for shoppers at their newly expanded Union Square

aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk

Marks & Spencer (M&S) bosses are urging local bus operators and politicians to improve bus access for shoppers at their newly expanded Union Square store in Aberdeen, following the closure of the long-standing St Nicholas Street branch.
The retail giant, which has invested £15 million in doubling the size of its Union Square premises, is keen to ensure that loyal customers—especially those with mobility challenges—can easily reach the new flagship location.
Luke Smith, store manager at M&S Union Square, commented on the new development:

“We’ve created a space where Aberdeen shoppers can discover an incredible range of delicious products, all built on the great quality and trusted value M&S is known for. We’re confident that this expansion will be a real treat for our customers, and we’re so excited to finally share it with everyone.”

The move has sparked concerns among shoppers, particularly older and disabled customers, about the distance from existing bus stops to the new M&S entrance. Local resident Rosemary Paterson, 77, voiced a common worry:

“If you are elderly, disabled, pushing a pram or a wheelchair, how are you supposed to get to Union Square when the bus stop is on Union Street?”

First Bus, a major operator in Aberdeen, acknowledged the situation. A spokesperson said:

“We keep a close eye on developments across the city as they happen and how that impacts customer demand to and from different locations. This will then dictate any adjustments we make to our network. A large number of our services already stop in and around Union Square but we will continue to monitor any movements in customer demand once the changes take place in Spring 2025.”

Aberdeen City Council has confirmed it is working with bus operators and business stakeholders to review city centre transport priorities as part of the ongoing City Centre Masterplan. A council statement noted:

“The Council is engaging with bus operators, business organisations, and other stakeholders to explore options for delivering the City Centre Masterplan.”

Recent changes to bus priority routes and the suspension of certain bus gates are designed to improve access and servicing for businesses in the city centre, including those at Union Square.

Next Steps

M&S bosses are in active discussions with both bus companies and city councillors to explore the possibility of rerouting buses or establishing new stops closer to the Union Square entrance. The goal is to ensure the expanded store remains accessible to all shoppers, maintaining the brand’s tradition of customer service as it embarks on this new chapter in Aberdeen.

 

[Jordan Adam]

Did anyone see this, Its nice to see Shops demanding better access for buses.

All aboard for M&S? Bus route revamp request - Aberdeen Business News

Marks & Spencer (M&S) bosses are urging local bus operators and politicians to improve bus access for shoppers at their newly expanded Union Square

aberdeenbusinessnews.co.uk

Of course they're going to when they've just closed their main store in the city and the vast majority of their existing customers find the alternative store to be far too out of the way.

 

[Scotrail88]

Of course they're going to when they've just closed their main store in the city and the vast majority of their existing customers find the alternative store to be far too out of the way.

And to the detriment of the remaining shops, bars, etc that remain on Union St.

very brash move and already sounds like look for excuses of closure.

 

[Volvodart]

Of course they're going to when they've just closed their main store in the city and the vast majority of their existing customers find the alternative store to be far too out of the way.

They did this after the store opened. I wonder if their customer numbers were not what they expected.

 

[Jordan Adam]

They did this after the store opened. I wonder if their customer numbers were not what they expected.

Wouldn't surprise me, a lot of people who did shop in the previous store were of the older generation and don't drive so would find Guild Street to be "out of the way" nevermind the the very far end of Union Square.

Its also in a location that makes it very awkward to divert buses to, the only lower impact option would be to extend the 1-B to Palmerston Road but that in itself would be quite a tedious route and probably not of much demand.

 

[Volvodart]

The repowered Streetdecks have started to enter service, 71017 is on route 2 today.

 

[Strathtay 260]

You can now track First Aberdeen here:

Map – First Aberdeen

timesbus.org

 

[Volvodart]

The final Electroliner, 36664 is now in service. There are now 3 repowers in service 71010/17/21.

 

[Volvodart]

Following cost pressures in part meaning that they have to get rid of the additional storage site, the following ex Aberdeen buses are for sale - Aberdeen Corporation Transport 207/9, 26, 40, 289, 10, 154 and Grampian Regional Transport 121.

Items for Sale | Alford Bus Collection

thebuscollectionatalford.co.uk