First Bus has undertaken a significant transformation at its Rochdale depot, marking a £750,000 investment in its engineering facilities. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the depot’s operational efficiency, introduces a double-height workshop bay and specialised equipment, setting new standards for maintenance.
Moreover, the depot is poised to welcome new apprentices, signalling not just an expansion in workforce but also a commitment to cultivating local talent. This project is part of a broader effort to support the Bee Network, highlighting First Bus’s role in improving regional public transport and community support.
New Workshop Bay and Equipment
First Bus has completed a substantial £750,000 investment at its Rochdale depot. The centrepiece of these enhancements is a new double-height workshop bay designed explicitly for vehicle repair and maintenance. This state-of-the-art facility also features two pits dedicated to single-decker buses, making routine inspections easier and more efficient.
Additionally, there is an external bay equipped with lifting gear, which allows buses to be elevated for easier access to undercarriage components. The new workshop also includes special equipment such as a brake tester that enables on-site inspections and approvals. According to Aaron Taylor, the Engineering Manager, these advancements allow a proactive approach to planned maintenance and fleet improvement.
Expansion of the Engineering Team
As a part of this initiative, the depot will soon welcome two apprentices to join its engineering team, expanding its range of skills and technicians. The new apprenticeships signal a move towards developing local talent and fostering a skilled workforce within the community.
Through these apprenticeships, the depot aims to boost its capacity for maintenance and service. Aaron Taylor mentioned that the new facilities enable the introduction of preventive maintenance processes, which will contribute to providing the best possible service to customers. This also aligns with the company’s broader aim of supporting the community and improving service quality.
The investment reflects First Bus’s commitment to long-term operational efficiency while also offering educational opportunities for the local population. The new apprentices will be well-equipped to handle future challenges within the transport sector.
Supporting the Bee Network
First Bus plays a pivotal role in the Bee Network, operating more than 30 routes in the Rochdale and Bury areas, along with six school services. The fleet consists of more than 65 buses, with future plans to expand the depot’s capacity to 90 vehicles.
General Manager Paul Townley emphasised that the new depot is creating high-skilled, well-paid jobs both locally and regionally. The project underscores First Bus’s determination to help build the local economy and link key communities, thereby supporting the aims of the Bee Network. This investment will likely have a significant impact on public transport in the area.
Moreover, the enhanced depot will allow First Bus to maintain a high level of service, ensuring that the buses are in top condition and reducing the likelihood of service disruptions. The focus on preventive maintenance means issues can be identified and resolved before they become problematic.
Focus on Preventive Maintenance
The investment in new facilities at the Rochdale depot will enable the introduction of advanced preventive maintenance processes. This approach aims to reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and improve the overall reliability of the fleet.
By adopting a proactive maintenance strategy, First Bus can address potential issues before they escalate, thereby ensuring a more efficient and reliable service for passengers. The brake tester and new tooling are crucial in implementing this preventive strategy, Aaron Taylor pointed out.
Preventive maintenance not only helps in reducing operational costs but also extends the lifespan of the buses. This strategy is expected to bring long-term benefits for both the company and its customers. Enhanced maintenance capabilities will allow First Bus to better serve the community and maintain a high standard of service.
Impact on Local Economy
The new depot and its advanced facilities are expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. By creating high-skilled jobs, the investment supports local employment and provides stable, well-paying positions.
Paul Townley highlighted that the project’s benefits extend beyond just transportation. The economic uplift from such investments can ripple through local businesses and suppliers, contributing to a broader economic growth in the Rochdale area. The initiative aligns with the company’s broader goals of community support and development.
Beyond job creation, the focus on skill development, especially through the apprenticeship programmes, aims to cultivate a workforce skilled in modern engineering practices. This not only helps the company but also boosts overall local competency in high-demand skills.
Future Aspirations
First Bus is looking to the future with its investment in the Rochdale depot. By expanding their facilities and workforce, they aim to stay ahead in the ever-evolving transport sector.
The company’s efforts in supporting the Bee Network underscore their commitment to public transport excellence. Investing in modern facilities and equipment is seen as a crucial step in achieving long-term goals. As the depot grows, so does its capacity to serve more routes and passengers.
With plans to further expand the fleet and adopt new technologies, First Bus is positioning itself as a forward-thinking player in the public transport industry. This investment is not just about immediate gains but also about ensuring sustainability and readiness for future demands.
Community and Customer Service
The investment in Rochdale’s depot is not just about business growth; it’s also about community support. By improving service reliability and operational efficiency, First Bus aims to offer a better experience for its passengers.
Aaron Taylor noted that the new facilities would enable the introduction of preventive maintenance processes, which means fewer disruptions and more reliable services for the community. This aligns with the broader goal of providing top-notch service to customers.
Ultimately, the new depot is set to become a cornerstone in First Bus’s efforts to serve the community better. Enhanced facilities mean that customer experiences will improve, fostering greater trust and satisfaction among passengers.
The £750,000 investment by First Bus in its Rochdale depot marks a pivotal shift towards operational excellence and community engagement. With state-of-the-art facilities, enhanced preventive maintenance capabilities, and a commitment to local talent development, the depot is equipped to serve the region more efficiently. This initiative not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens public transport services, ensuring a reliable and high-quality experience for passengers. As First Bus continues to innovate and expand, the Rochdale depot stands as a testament to its dedication to long-term growth and community support.