Shout Glasgow

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News from

Glasgow

SimpliCITY will benefit from more than 150 brand new buses.

K LAU R O

H NC

SH UT CITY GETS NEW BUS NETWORK

NETW

Issue 1 May 2013 www.firstglasgow.com WiFi coming soon

SPE CIAL

Download First Scotland’s new App for a great hi-tech surprise and bonus video content PAGE THREE

WeeFee

the Look out for

Busy’rBeocudteie, fsun – they tive and informa S CENTRE PAGE

Host of benefits

mean it is one of the best in the UK

Key routes have

services running every five minutes NEW

A BRAND new bus network will significantly improve services for passengers in Glasgow.

First Glasgow’s new network called SimpliCITY launches on May 26 with a host of benefits for customers including increased frequencies on key routes – with many offering buses every five minutes.

Routes and services have been revamped to make them easier for all customers to understand and use. The changes represent the biggest improvement to services since the late 1990s and will benefit those living both within the city and across Greater Glasgow.

Ronnie Park, Managing Director of First Glasgow, said: “The city has changed considerably since our current network was introduced and we saw the need to update it to meet the travelling

needs of our customers, especially in the run-up to next year’s Commonwealth Games.

“SimpliCITY will make it easier and more convenient for residents and visitors to get around Glasgow and give them the confidence that they can expect a bus every 10 minutes or better during the day.

I’m confident it can become one of the best bus networks in the UK.” There are a number of new initiatives including a new express from Drumchapel to the city and simpler links to and from the city centre. Routes have been altered and re-numbered to make it easier for all customers to understand and use.

New buses with leather seats, low floors for easy access and free WiFi to help customers stay connected while on the move are being introduced. By the end of the year more than 300 buses will be WiFi enabled.

Deep sea angler catches the bus!

HOOK UP TO PAGE SEVEN

NETWORK: full route by route service guide – pages 8 to 11

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IT’S SIMPLES: the new network is making

bus travel easy for First customers in Glasgow – and is set to attract more passengers.

WELL LAID PLANS: Members of the First Glasgow team planning the SimpliCITY project in the offices at Larkfield depot are, left to right, Network Planning Manager Chris Carberry, Operations and Network Officer Chris Hampson, Service Provision and Reliability Manager Rosemary Stewart, Head of Network Services David Robertson and Scheduler Ross Park.

TAILORED TO SUIT OUR CUSTOMERS Improved network makes travel easier THE launch of the new SimpliCITY network is very exciting for everyone at First Glasgow, but what matters most is how the changes make things easier for the overwhelming majority of our customers.

Every part of the network has been designed with our customers in mind, from the new buses with leather seating and free WiFi to more frequent buses on key routes with renumbering taking place to make services easier to understand.

Consultation on the new network ran for seven weeks. This was not something we were legally obliged to do, but we wanted to be open with our customers about our plans and give them the opportunity to

For network updates

have their say on our proposals.

We are delighted with the response we received and would like to thank everyone who put their comments forward. Our original plans have been amended and strengthened as a result of the feedback we received during the consultation. Our customers are one of our most important assets – they are what make our business.

We have tried to keep any fare increases to a minimum and thousands will benefit from better services as well as the cut-price Adult Day tickets from May 26. We hope the new network will also lead to more people opting to travel by bus once they see how impressive it is.

CUSTOMERS and stakeholders helped to shape changes to Glasgow’s bus network. Original plans for the SimpliCITY network were taken to consultation, with people given the opportunity to give their feedback.

More than 8,000 visits were made to the online consultation website and more than 500 comments were received by email.

After taking onboard the feedback, planners made more than a dozen changes to strengthen the network.

Revisions have been made to the network as a result of the feedback received. They include retaining early morning buses on the Service 36 to Cumbernauld, used by workers to Westfield Industrial Estate.

A15-minute frequency will be retained on the Service 21 during morning and evening peak hours instead of the proposed 30 minute frequency and First will also retain the evening service to Gardenhall, which had been scheduled for withdrawal in the original plans. Concerns about the loss of service on the lower section of Crow Road on the new Service 19A have also been listened to and the current route will be kept.

Close working Letters also went out to more than 400 stakeholders to inform them about proposals for the new network. MPs, MSPs, local councillors and other officials including those from Strathclyde Partnership for Transport were offered the chance to meet with First Glasgow staff to give their feedback in a similar way.

First Glasgow’s Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “We wanted to be open with our customers and involve them in the process as much as possible. We also worked very closely with our stakeholders.

“During the consultation, customers and stakeholders said they liked the simplified service numbers, but raised concerns about the same number being used for two or more destinations. We have tweaked our original plans and service numbers to make them easier to understand.

Strengthened

‘‘’’ Our customers are one of our

most important assets and they are what make our business.

Feedback from customers and stakeholders helped to shape the final scheme

By FIRST GLASGOW MANAGING DIRECTOR

RONNIE PARK

“The consultation was the most comprehensive undertaken in recent years and I would like to thank everyone who contributed. I believe our original plans have been strengthened as a result of the consultation and even more passengers will benefit.”

Services to Clydebank and Milngavie were to be called Service 60, but will now instead be named Service 60 and Service 60A. Similar route number changes have been introduced throughout the revised plans where the same number is used for more than one destination.

twitter@FirstinGlasgow or visit www.facebook.com/FirstGlasgow

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Service number changes add up to an easier to access network THE launch of the SimpliCITY network heralds a series of service number changes which are designed to make it easier for customers to catch a bus to their destination, more frequently.

DOUBLE THUMBS UP FOR THE ONE SERVICE: Identical twins John, left, and Peter Douglas pictured in front of the bus advertisement in which they feature after winning The One service competition.

Scan the photo to see more...

ONE GIVES TWINS DOUBLE DELIGHT BUS passengers in Glasgow have spoken up about why a recently relaunched service has become their favourite.

Service 204/205 was upgraded and renamed The One as part of a £6 million investment by First into improving bus services in the city.

A fleet of brand new single deck buses equipped with complimentary WiFi and leather seats were introduced with a fast, direct and frequent service up to every six minutes.

First ran a competition to give customers the chance to feature on dedicated bus adverts. The five winners chosen love the service – which provides a link from the Dumbarton area to the city centre via

Welcome to

Clydebank and Scotstoun – because it is fast, efficient and comfy.

Identical twins John and Peter Douglas, aged 76, from Bellsmyre, are fans of the leather seats. They said: “After 40 years of travelling by bus, it’s a double thumbs up for The One – our most comfortable journey ever.

“Never did we think that our photograph would appear on the back of a bus. This has been a great experience.”

Lindsay Allan, aged 31, of Old Kilpatrick, won for her entry that read: “Number One for school, nursery, work and the shops – me and my boys think this bus rocks. It’s fast, it’s sleek, comfy too. More space, seats and WiFi for you!”

The mum-of-three, who stars in an ad with

her young sons, said: “We regularly travel on The One and the service is great. The drivers are really helpful and courteous and get us to where we want to go quickly and safely.

“It has been a great experience being involved in the competition. It’s really good that First Bus is involved in the community and engages with its customers.”

Andrew Crerand, aged 24, from Clydebank, travels on The One seven days a week. His advert reads: “Meeting friends, going to work, college or a night out, this bus is The One for me.”

Fellow competition winners university student Jodie Lannigan, aged 23, and regular commuter Gil Guine, aged 31, both from Scotstoun, praised the service for being fast, frequent and efficient.

Scotland Augmented Reality (AR)

By downloading a free app on to your smartphone or tablet you can bring the photograph above to life using the power of a new technology called Augmented Reality (AR).

To access bonus content on this page simply follow the easy 1-2-3 steps:

1

Download the First Scotland AR app from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android).

2

3

Open the app with a simple tap.

Point your device at the photo above and the photo on the centre pages where you see the AR content marker – and wait for the surprise. Double tap for a full-screen image.

Augmented reality services by

New

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

There has been a total of 32 number changes which affect city centre routes and other key First Bus corridors across Greater Glasgow.

Planners have been working to develop the number changes over the last nine months and passenger groups have been heavily involved in the consultation process too.

The concept was piloted as part of The One service which replaced Services 204 and 205.

It has meant buses with a frequency of every five to six minutes between Scotstoun and the city centre – with the service being hailed as a success by customers.

All the service number changes come into effect on Sunday, May 26 with the launch of the SimpliCITY Network.

Split routes A comprehensive guide to all the service number changes is published on page 11 of this isssue of Shout. Regular Twitter and Facebook updates, adverts and a dedicated information bus will also help to spread the message.

John Elliot, Commercial Manager for First Glasgow said: “The service number changes reflect the streamlined SimpliCITY network.

“They make it easier for customers to catch a bus in a particular corridor and if they need to travel further afield, letters such as A or B have been used to identify split routes.

For example, the current Service 7 from Halfway to the city centre via Kings Park has now been separated into Service 7 and Service 7A to make distinct the two different destinations.

Confident “In general it means people can catch more buses than ever before to get to their destination – and passengers, stakeholders and focus groups are really welcoming this boost in frequency.”

John added: “Minibus services have been prefixed with an ‘M’ – for instance, the M60 service from Drumchapel to Clydebank – and, where possible, service numbers have been made simpler. and easier to remember.

“Public consultation has been a key part of the number change process and where possible we have taken onboard their comments in shaping the new services.

“We are confident this will be a big hit with customers based on the success we have had with The One service – which has helped us to make bus travel between Scotstoun and the city centre simpler and more frequent.”

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

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Employees help raise £10,000 in memoryof brave Caden,aged six KIND-HEARTED First Glasgow employees helped to raise £10,000 in memory of a brave six-year-old boy who lost his life to a deadly infection.

Caden Beggan was taken ill with meningococcal septicaemia last October and tragically died less than a month later.

To help raise awareness of his condition, a First bus, which ran past his school, Ladywell Primary in Motherwell, everyday, was painted pink and carried special slogans of support.

The messages included “Keep Thinking Pink for Caden Beggan” and “To Know Him is to Love Him”.

The colour was chosen for the campaign as it symbolises the colour of healthy skin battling against the virus.

First depots also staged fundraising events, made donations and supported an online auction, which helped to raise the £10,000.

The money will help Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Sick Children (RHSC) buy the sort of life support equipment, which was used to help Caden in his fight against the virus.

The First depot donations also paid for the installation of a memorial pirate playground at Ladywell Primary.

Caden’s parents, David and Angela, expressed their gratitude. David said: “Angela and I are very grateful and deeply moved by First Glasgow’s efforts to raise support for the excellent work being done by the RHSC.” First Glasgow Public Relations Manager Emma Latimer said: “The anguish this family went through has touched many of my colleagues who have been keen to do what they can to provide some kind of support, both to Caden and his family, and to the hospital.”

£25M INVESTMENT FIRST is investing £25 million in brand new buses to give SimpliCITY network customers the very latest in 21st century comfort and internet connectivity.

Of the 300 vehicles operating across the new network, 150 are new and come complete with WiFi and leather or e-leather seats. Many buses will have WiFi by the end of the year.

Low floors are a feature on all vehicles, with the exception of some school buses and coaches, which make them much easier to use for people with buggies or those using wheelchairs.

The new vehicles are a mix of Enviro300 single decks, Enviro400 double decks and Hybrid diesel/electric buses.

Based at Dumbarton, Larkfield, Parkhead and Scotstoun, they are ultra fuel-efficient and are helping First cut its carbon footprint as part of its pledge to provide environmentally-friendly public transport services.

More new buses are on order for delivery in the coming months as First Glasgow continues to upgrade its Simplicity fleet during the course of 2013.

First Glasgow Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “We’re immensely proud that our new

AIRPORT SHUTTLE: buses on the

express service have WiFi, leather seats and low floors for easy access.

vehicles and upgraded buses are setting industry-leading standards for customer comfort and care.

“Extensive customer consultation has helped us design

our new interiors to make them more contemporary and above all safe while WiFi as standard means customers can use laptops, mobiles and tablets to stay connected while on the move

“We’ve listened carefully to what customers want so we’re sure they’ll be impressed with the effort we’re putting in to take accessibility and bus comfort to a whole new level.”

Coffee mornings raise pots of money GENEROUS First employees have helped to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer Support. A whole host of imaginative events have been arranged including coffee mornings and sponsored sporting activities.

In seven months, £400,000 has been donated in cash and kind. This includes advertising space on First buses operating in Glasgow to support the charity’s Not Alone campaign.

Eleanor Walker, Corporate Partnership Account Manager at

For network updates

Macmillan, said: “On behalf of everybody at Macmillan, I would like to say a huge thank you to First Group for its kind donation.”

First Glasgow Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “We are very proud to be supporting Macmillan and people across the city who are affected by cancer. We hope our partnership with Macmillan and especially the advertising on our buses will mean that more people can be signposted to its fantastic services and will not face cancer alone.”

SUPPORTING CHARITY: one of the ads

publicising Macmillan’s Not Alone campaign.

twitter@FirstinGlasgow or visit www.facebook.com/FirstGlasgow

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May 2013

BETTER JOURNEYS FOR ALL: First Glasgow

Controller Mark McSkeane points to a poster at Larkfield depot which spells out the company’s commitment to its customers.

THE WAY FORWARD: Katie Smart,First Group’s

Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Manager with the Trust’s Scottish Director Martin Davidson.

Ongoing support for Outward Bound Trust

TICKETS PRICE CUTS FOR KIDS FAMILIES travelling by First Bus in Glasgow have been handed more good news to coincide with the launch of the SimpliCITY network.

The cost of children’s fares has been slashed by 20 per cent – from 75p down to 60p. And while a small 5p increase has been applied to the cost of its Single Adult Short Hop and Long Hop tickets, First has frozen the vast majority of its other fares.

The big freeze also applies to all First Day and return tickets – among the most popular with customers travelling by bus in the city. The Adult City Day ticket will also be reduced in price to mark the SimpliCITY launch.

Ronnie Park, Managing Director of First Glasgow, said: “Despite rising costs and the ongoing challenging economy, we have been able to significantly

reduce children’s tickets and freeze many other ticket types in this fares review. I am particularly pleased that we’ve been able to reduce the children's single ticket – I am sure this will prove popular amongst families across our network.

“And given that the cost of city centre parking increased from April, we felt it was important that we freeze the majority of our tickets.

“Our day tickets and season tickets, especially, are more likely to tempt motorists increasingly fed up with the cost and hassle of running a car – not to mention the problems associated with city centre parking – to use the bus more often.

“We have had to increase some adult single fares, but I can assure customers that we’ve kept these to the absolute minimum.

“Almost every single cost associated with running a bus company is increasing. A recent study by the Confederation of Passenger Transport showed that overall operating costs for bus companies increased by 4.7 per cent in 2012.

“Those costs are likely to increase further in 2013. However, we have done everything possible to avoid passing those costs on to our customers.”

Ronnie emphasised that bus travel continues to represent very good value for money. “I think all our ticket offers are terrific value. For example, customers using a First4Week ticket can enjoy unlimited bus travel across the city for as little as £1.35 a day. When you consider the cost of running a car – fuel, insurance, road tax, depreciation and parking – travelling by bus is an attractive alternative.”

FIRST Group is donating £30,000 over the next two years to an educational charity, which offers challenging outdoor activities to young people in Scotland.

The company has donated £250,000 to The Outward Bound Trust over the past 18 years and is one of the charity’s Patron Company members.

The Trust’s Scottish Director Martin Davidson welcomed the latest donation when he called in at First Aberdeen.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support, “ he said. “We enjoy a wonderful relationship with First – the company is one of our biggest and most loyal supporters.

“At The Outward Bound Trust, we inspire young people to fulfil their potential through challenging outdoor experiences, raising self-esteem and preparing them to face the future with confidence.”

Accolades for First’s environmental credentials FIRST Glasgow employees have been urged to carry on enhancing the company’s green credentials this year after the Group won a series of environment accolades.

First Bus nationally has reduced the volume of waste going to landfill by 10 per cent over the last 12 months across its entire UK operations of more than 70 depots.

The company has also successfully reduced its gas and electricity usage by seven per cent – another significant saving for the business.

A major reason for First’s success has been attributed to its internal environmental campaign, “Small Changes, Big Difference”, which aims to get staff throughout the company involved in waste recycling and energy conservation initiatives.

The campaign, which has been hailed a success, also picked up two awards last year – the Silver Green Apple Environment Award and the much-coveted Environmental prize at the UK Bus Awards, one of the bus industry’s most respected recognition events.

FirstGroup’s Head of Environment Katerina Robinson said: “The ‘Small Changes Big Difference’ campaign is effective in helping us to achieve some of the ambitious targets set out in our five year Environmental Plan.

“Our environmental focus has

New

GREEN TREATMENT FOR BLACK GOLD:

Engineer Connor Hastings recycles oil at First Glasgow’s Larbert depot engineering department.

FUNDRAISER:

Driver John Ramage out planning a group walk for charity in Scotstoun.

Driver leads group walks for good causes

traditionally concentrated on reducing emissions from our buses, the results of which have been very rewarding.”

The latest awards capped a successful year for the First Group environmental team. In April last year, First jointly won the Sustainability Award at the Scottish PLC Awards. In May the sustainability performance of First was named best in the UK and

second best in the world by EIRIS, the leading global provider of independent research into the environmental, social, governance and ethical performance of companies.

Also, FirstGroup achieved the internationally acclaimed Carbon Trust Standard which recognises the company’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions across its operations.

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

A WIDE range of charities have benefited from First Glasgow Driver John Ramage’s walking exploits over the years. As leader of the walking group at Scotstoun John makes sure good causes are always in the frame.

Cancer charities and groups supporting the blind are favourite beneficiaries when John leads a ramble.

Keen to ensure the walks suit all ages, and taking suggestions on routes from members of the 15-strong group, the 50-year-old keep fit enthusiast organises a trip on the third Sunday of every month.

In the past he has climbed Ben Nevis, explored the Trossachs and camped overnight on the Isle of Arran.

John, who stays fit by taking part in marathons, said: “I have done charity work through the years and when I was asked to start the walking group with two others five years ago it seemed right to continue the charity theme.”

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

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May 2013

May 2013

Deep sea angler

Bolt

catches the bus!

Brite

Zo migod

Smash LARKFIELD Driver Alastair Richardson helped passengers with mobility challenges. Alastair is pictured by a bus advertisement highlighting his Superstar award.

Driver ‘Superstars’go the extra mile to deliver great service MEET First Glasgow’s award winning drivers dedicated to delivering a great service to passengers.

First’s Superstars awards scheme recognises and rewards staff who go the extra mile whether it is a driver exceeding the expectations of customers or a particularly helpful travel shop employee.

In recent months, a number of winners have been chosen from the Glasgow area and have since been presented with awards for their efforts.

Larkfield Driver Alastair Richardson was nominated for the accolade by customers who wanted his outstanding behaviour recognised after watching him help passengers with mobility difficulties.

Alastair supported a customer using crutches and a woman with a young child in a pram. Bosses commissioned bus side adverts as an extra thank-you for his efforts and a life-sized cut out of him was made to promote good customer service.

He said: “I was stunned to be nominated and I would like to thank the customers who nominated me. I like to deliver the best customer service I can.”

In Overtown, Driver James Canavan became a Superstar when he was rewarded for reuniting a customer with a much-prized leather folder that he left on the Glasgow to Motherwell service.

The customer said: “I couldn’t thank James enough for returning my folder to me, and so I was pleased to nominate him in the Superstars rewards scheme.”

And Scotstoun Driver James Gallacher picked up an award for coming to the aid of a teenager in distress. James gave the girl his mobile phone so that she could telephone her parents and waited with her until they arrived.

First Glasgow’s Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “We’re very proud to have such dedicated staff, especially when it is our customers who come forward to praise them.”

PROMOTING SERVICES:

Tikkit

James Gallacher assisted a 16-year-old girl who had been threatened by two men.

OVERTOWN Driver

James Canavan reunited a customer with a much-prized leather folder left on his bus.

Scan the photo to see more...

BUSYBODIES SET TO CREATE A REAL BUZZ FIRST’S drive to improve and simplify its network in Scotland is being boosted by a marketing campaign featuring lovable cartoon characters.

SCOTSTOUN Driver

First Revenue and Marketing Manager Paula Middleton takes a journey on a bus in Glasgow where the Busybodies have already been introduced.

The BusyBodies, with cute names like Zomigod and Wakey Wakey, have been created to put a friendly face to important information.

Key messages will appear in a direct and catchy form alongside the characters in timetables, on bus exteriors and interiors.

The 14 cartoon characters have their own personalities and promote a range of services across the network.

Speech bubbles such as “This bus goes to the city centre” will accompany the pictures of the little people.

Their names are: Snooozzz (for late night services), Wakey Wakey (for rise-and-shine services), Brite (for students), Zomigod (for shopping), Piggy and Bakk (for Park and Ride), WeeFee (for WiFi), NeeNaw (for hospital information), Tikkit (for ticketing information), Smash (for moneysaving offers) and Bolt (as in Usain – for frequency). Yodle and the MeMe twins are generic characters.

Kevin Belfield, Commercial Director at First Scotland, said:

Z

WiFi is another feature of the

Z

new buses which are giving First customers in Glasgow a 21st Century journey experience.

Z Z

Z

Scan the photo to see more...

DEEP sea angler Charles Boyle is a dab hand at catching fish – but he’s never tried to hook a bus before!

The Larkfield Driver, pictured above, was only too happy to cast his rod on dry land to help promote the launch of First’s new SimpliCITY network in Glasgow.

Charles donned his waterproof gear and wielded one of his rods

Snooozzz “The BusyBodies have been created to inform our customers in a fun way about the benefits of using the bus.

“We were keen that each BusyBody has its own personality, so for example our early morning services will be promoted by Wakey Wakey, our fares promotions by Tikkit and our general announcements by Yodle who will have the largest personality of all!

“The BusyBodies will feature in our timetables, promotional material and on our buses. They will also occasionally be seen peering through the bus window!”

For network updates

twitter@FirstinGlasgow

at the depot to join in the marketing fun and send out the message: there are easier ways to catch a bus.

Demonstrating his presentation skills, the driver recorded an Augmented Reality (AR) video clip while he was casting his line.

It’s just the latest proof of Charles’ versatility – in his spare time he travels to all points of

the compass to seek out cod, tope and skate, switching from sea angling to freshwater fishing wherever there’s hope of a bite.

To bring the angling image above to life, and access the AR clip showing Charles introducing the SimpliCITY information in this newspaper, point your smartphone or tablet at the photo (see instructions on page three).

Handling a Python...all in a day’s work ey WakeyWak

WiFi buses take customers on interactive journeys MORE WiFi enabled vehicles will now make it easier than ever for SimpliCITY network customers to check emails, update their Facebook status, watch a film or simply just browse the internet.

WiFi will be fitted as standard to more than 150 new buses being introduced in the city – benefitting a number of the SimpliCITY routes.

The free-of-charge facility allows customers to use their laptops, smartphones and tablets while on the move. It also means customers can access Apps and an Augmented Reality App

e v a h ew d l u n o ) e h k r s h t e d H ( use netwo

which features in this newspaper.

The First Glasgow App available from the Apple App Store provides bus times, service information and news updates.

Available for Android and iPhone users for download from app stores, another free Bus App has been launched by First across the UK after extensive customer trials.

This app uses Global Positioning Technology (GPS) to pinpoint a customers’ location and helps them find their nearest bus stop while also providing real-time bus departure information where it is available.

or visit www.facebook.com/FirstGlasgow

The First Scotland Augmented Reality App, which brings two photographs in this newspaper to life, is easy-to-use and can be downloaded from App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android) .

First Glasgow Commercial Manager John Elliot said: “First Glasgow is determined to be at the forefront where it comes to setting new technology benchmarks and making sure our customers stay connected. Our extensive on-board WiFi network and our new array of apps are now doing just that.”

WeeFee

New

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

SLIPPERY roads are all in days work for First Glasgow Driver Mo Tawab and slippery snakes are too if his smile while posing with Wall-e, a Royal Python, is to be believed.

But don’t be fooled by Mo’s calm exterior – he was worried as he was asked to get up close and personal with the six-year-old snake during a photo shoot to promote discounted tickets on the Service X7 Express connecting Buchanan Bus Station with M & D’s Theme Park.

The 27-year-old, who has been a First driver for nine years, was asked to pose with Wall-e, one of the park’s top attractions, and children from Castlemilk’s Jeely Piece Club Nursery.

Mo, who is pictured with Wall-e and four-year-old Aiesha Anderson from the nursery, said: “I am a little wary of snakes. But given that the kids were happily handling Wall-e, I thought I’d join in the fun.”

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

Shout page 6-7

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May 2013

May 2013

Deep sea angler

Bolt

catches the bus!

Brite

Zo migod

Smash LARKFIELD Driver Alastair Richardson helped passengers with mobility challenges. Alastair is pictured by a bus advertisement highlighting his Superstar award.

Driver ‘Superstars’go the extra mile to deliver great service MEET First Glasgow’s award winning drivers dedicated to delivering a great service to passengers.

First’s Superstars awards scheme recognises and rewards staff who go the extra mile whether it is a driver exceeding the expectations of customers or a particularly helpful travel shop employee.

In recent months, a number of winners have been chosen from the Glasgow area and have since been presented with awards for their efforts.

Larkfield Driver Alastair Richardson was nominated for the accolade by customers who wanted his outstanding behaviour recognised after watching him help passengers with mobility difficulties.

Alastair supported a customer using crutches and a woman with a young child in a pram. Bosses commissioned bus side adverts as an extra thank-you for his efforts and a life-sized cut out of him was made to promote good customer service.

He said: “I was stunned to be nominated and I would like to thank the customers who nominated me. I like to deliver the best customer service I can.”

In Overtown, Driver James Canavan became a Superstar when he was rewarded for reuniting a customer with a much-prized leather folder that he left on the Glasgow to Motherwell service.

The customer said: “I couldn’t thank James enough for returning my folder to me, and so I was pleased to nominate him in the Superstars rewards scheme.”

And Scotstoun Driver James Gallacher picked up an award for coming to the aid of a teenager in distress. James gave the girl his mobile phone so that she could telephone her parents and waited with her until they arrived.

First Glasgow’s Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “We’re very proud to have such dedicated staff, especially when it is our customers who come forward to praise them.”

PROMOTING SERVICES:

Tikkit

James Gallacher assisted a 16-year-old girl who had been threatened by two men.

OVERTOWN Driver

James Canavan reunited a customer with a much-prized leather folder left on his bus.

Scan the photo to see more...

BUSYBODIES SET TO CREATE A REAL BUZZ FIRST’S drive to improve and simplify its network in Scotland is being boosted by a marketing campaign featuring lovable cartoon characters.

SCOTSTOUN Driver

First Revenue and Marketing Manager Paula Middleton takes a journey on a bus in Glasgow where the Busybodies have already been introduced.

The BusyBodies, with cute names like Zomigod and Wakey Wakey, have been created to put a friendly face to important information.

Key messages will appear in a direct and catchy form alongside the characters in timetables, on bus exteriors and interiors.

The 14 cartoon characters have their own personalities and promote a range of services across the network.

Speech bubbles such as “This bus goes to the city centre” will accompany the pictures of the little people.

Their names are: Snooozzz (for late night services), Wakey Wakey (for rise-and-shine services), Brite (for students), Zomigod (for shopping), Piggy and Bakk (for Park and Ride), WeeFee (for WiFi), NeeNaw (for hospital information), Tikkit (for ticketing information), Smash (for moneysaving offers) and Bolt (as in Usain – for frequency). Yodle and the MeMe twins are generic characters.

Kevin Belfield, Commercial Director at First Scotland, said:

Z

WiFi is another feature of the

Z

new buses which are giving First customers in Glasgow a 21st Century journey experience.

Z Z

Z

Scan the photo to see more...

DEEP sea angler Charles Boyle is a dab hand at catching fish – but he’s never tried to hook a bus before!

The Larkfield Driver, pictured above, was only too happy to cast his rod on dry land to help promote the launch of First’s new SimpliCITY network in Glasgow.

Charles donned his waterproof gear and wielded one of his rods

Snooozzz “The BusyBodies have been created to inform our customers in a fun way about the benefits of using the bus.

“We were keen that each BusyBody has its own personality, so for example our early morning services will be promoted by Wakey Wakey, our fares promotions by Tikkit and our general announcements by Yodle who will have the largest personality of all!

“The BusyBodies will feature in our timetables, promotional material and on our buses. They will also occasionally be seen peering through the bus window!”

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at the depot to join in the marketing fun and send out the message: there are easier ways to catch a bus.

Demonstrating his presentation skills, the driver recorded an Augmented Reality (AR) video clip while he was casting his line.

It’s just the latest proof of Charles’ versatility – in his spare time he travels to all points of

the compass to seek out cod, tope and skate, switching from sea angling to freshwater fishing wherever there’s hope of a bite.

To bring the angling image above to life, and access the AR clip showing Charles introducing the SimpliCITY information in this newspaper, point your smartphone or tablet at the photo (see instructions on page three).

Handling a Python...all in a day’s work ey WakeyWak

WiFi buses take customers on interactive journeys MORE WiFi enabled vehicles will now make it easier than ever for SimpliCITY network customers to check emails, update their Facebook status, watch a film or simply just browse the internet.

WiFi will be fitted as standard to more than 150 new buses being introduced in the city – benefitting a number of the SimpliCITY routes.

The free-of-charge facility allows customers to use their laptops, smartphones and tablets while on the move. It also means customers can access Apps and an Augmented Reality App

e v a h ew d l u n o ) e h k r s h t e d H ( use netwo

which features in this newspaper.

The First Glasgow App available from the Apple App Store provides bus times, service information and news updates.

Available for Android and iPhone users for download from app stores, another free Bus App has been launched by First across the UK after extensive customer trials.

This app uses Global Positioning Technology (GPS) to pinpoint a customers’ location and helps them find their nearest bus stop while also providing real-time bus departure information where it is available.

or visit www.facebook.com/FirstGlasgow

The First Scotland Augmented Reality App, which brings two photographs in this newspaper to life, is easy-to-use and can be downloaded from App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android) .

First Glasgow Commercial Manager John Elliot said: “First Glasgow is determined to be at the forefront where it comes to setting new technology benchmarks and making sure our customers stay connected. Our extensive on-board WiFi network and our new array of apps are now doing just that.”

WeeFee

New

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

SLIPPERY roads are all in days work for First Glasgow Driver Mo Tawab and slippery snakes are too if his smile while posing with Wall-e, a Royal Python, is to be believed.

But don’t be fooled by Mo’s calm exterior – he was worried as he was asked to get up close and personal with the six-year-old snake during a photo shoot to promote discounted tickets on the Service X7 Express connecting Buchanan Bus Station with M & D’s Theme Park.

The 27-year-old, who has been a First driver for nine years, was asked to pose with Wall-e, one of the park’s top attractions, and children from Castlemilk’s Jeely Piece Club Nursery.

Mo, who is pictured with Wall-e and four-year-old Aiesha Anderson from the nursery, said: “I am a little wary of snakes. But given that the kids were happily handling Wall-e, I thought I’d join in the fun.”

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

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May 2013

Network Changes GUIDE the One

Service 6 Service will be renumbered to operate as service M6. Slightly revised departure times introduced but no change to frequency.

No major changes to current service New service 1C introduced between Drumchapel and City Centre

Changes to simpliCITY 57A between Balornock East and City Centre 7 – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Toryglen – Rutherglen

Service 7

Buses every 5-6* minutes between Clydebank, Scotstoun and City Centre

Service 7 and 12 changes to new simpliCITY 7/7A

1 – Balloch – Haldane – Vale of Leven Hospital – Alexandria – Dumbarton – Old Kilpatrick – Dalmuir – Clydebank – Scotstoun – Clydeside Expressway – City Centre

7A – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Kingspark – Rutherglen – Burnside – Cambuslang – Westburn – Newton Farm

Frequency improved to every 10* minutes 7 – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Toryglen – Rutherglen

1A – Balloch – Haldane – Napierston – Alexandria – Dumbarton – Old Kilpatrick – Dalmuir – Clydebank – Scotstoun – Expressway – City Centre

7A – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Kings Park – Rutherglen – Burnside – Cambuslang – Westburn – Newton Farm

1B – Helensburgh – Cardross – Westcliff – Dumbarton – Old Kilpatrick – Dalmuir – Clydebank – Scotstoun – Expressway – City Centre 1C – Drumchapel – Garscadden – Scotstoun – Expressway – City Centre 1E – Balloch – Haldane – Bonhill – Bellsmyre – Old Kilpatrick – Dalmuir – Clydebank – Scotstoun – Expressway – City Centre The One already provides a fast and frequent link between Dumbarton, Clydebank, Scotstoun and the City Centre. This will be further improved by the introduction of new service 1C between Drumchapel, Scotstoun and the City Centre.

Service 1C will start at Drumchapel (Lillyburn Place) and then serve Achamore Road, Kinfauns Drive, Duntreath Avenue, Alderman Road, Polnoon Avenue, Cairntoul Drive and Anniesland Road where it will then join the existing route of the One to the City Centre via Clydeside Expressway.

There will be a 1C bus every 20 minutes during day and every 30 minutes at night. The current timetable of The One will be slightly altered to introduce more 1A journeys that serve Bellsmyre and these extra buses will run on weekday mornings and afternoons.

To meet customer requests for clearer destination information on buses, buses to or from Helensburgh will now show service 1B to identify then separately from service 1 to Balloch, however there is no change to route. The current weekday 1B journeys that operate to or from Balloch serving Bonhill and Bellsmyre will now show service 1E. These changes will mean that between Scotstoun and City Centre there will be a bus up to every 2 or 3 minutes during weekday morning and afternoons and every 5 minutes during the main part of the day. At night the timetable will be doubled to every 15 minutes with buses operating to Clydebank and Dumbarton every 30 minutes or Drumchapel every 30 minutes.

Service 7/7A will operate from Summerston to the City Centre via Saracen Cross replacing service 54. Buses will operate on an improved frequency of every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

From the City Centre, service 7/7A will continue to operate via the present service 7 and 12 route to Toryglen Asda. From there service 7 will then operate four journeys per hour direct (not via Prospecthill Circus) to Rutherglen Town Centre, partly replacing service 12.

Service 7A journeys will operate two journeys per hour via Kings Park, Rutherglen Main Street, Stonelaw Road, Burnside, Dukes Road, Cambuslang, and Westburn to Newton Farm replacing the present service 7 journeys on this section of route. The section of route in Halfway will be partly replaced by revised service 65, for more details please refer to this service.

Service 8 Slightly revised route and timetable introduced to improve reliability but no change to frequency. With the exception of some evening and Sunday journeys numbered 8A, service 8 will now operate along Hawthorn Street and Balmore Road in the Saracen area.

Service 9 Service 9 changes to new simpliCITY 9/9A Extended to serve Braehead Shopping Centre every 20 minutes Buses every 5* minutes along Paisley Road West to City Centre 9 – Linwood – Paisley – Cardonald – Paisley Road West – Ibrox – City Centre 9A – Braehead/Penilee – Cardonald – Paisley Road West – Ibrox – City Centre

Service 2 Service will be renumbered to operate as service M2. Service M2 will also serve Prospecthill Circus with slight changes to timetable as a result.

Service 3 Service will be renumbered to operate as service M3. No timetable change on weekdays but on Saturdays the first few journeys will no longer operate as a result of low passenger use.

Service 5

Service 9 will now operate every 10 minutes or better during the day and every 30 minutes at night between Linwood and City Centre via Paisley. Service 9A will operate every 10 minutes or better during the day and every 30 minutes at night between Penilee and City with alternate journeys every 20 minutes extending to or from Braehead.

From Hillington Road service 9/9A will provide a combined 5 minute frequency during the day and every 15 minutes at night to the City Centre via Cardonald and Ibrox.

The section of route between Drumchapel and the City Centre via Partick will be replaced by new service 3 every 10 minutes or better during the day via Charing Cross. Check out the information for service 23 for full details.

No change to route or frequency

Service 11

Buses every 10* minutes Combines with simpliCITY 6 to provide a bus every 5 minutes between Battlefield, Victoria Road & City Centre 5 – Castlemilk – Croftfoot – Battlefield – Victoria Infirmary – Victoria Road – City Centre Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency with buses every 10 minutes or better during the day and every 30 minutes at night between Castlemilk and City Centre.

Combined with service 6, service 5 will provide a 5 minute frequency on the Battlefield – Victoria Road – City Centre corridor.

For network updates

City Centre

The current service 11 will no longer operate and is replaced as follows – Service M11 will replace the route between Clydebank, Anniesland and Gartnavel Hospital every 30 minutes during the day. Service 4A will replace the route between Anniesland, Kelvindale and the City Centre. Service 19A will replace the route between City Centre and Robroyston.

Service 12 Changes to simpliCITY 7/7A between Rutherglen and

Service 7/7A will operate from Summerston to the City Centre via Saracen Cross replacing service 54. Buses will operate on an improved frequency of every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

From the City Centre, service 7/7A will continue to operate the present service 7 and 12 route to Toryglen Asda. From there service 7 will then operate four journeys per hour direct (not via Prospecthill Circus) to Rutherglen Town Centre, partly replacing service 12.

Service 7A journeys will operate two journeys per hour serving Kings Park, Rutherglen Main Street, Stonelaw Road, Burnside, Dukes Road, Cambuslang, and Westburn to Newton Farm replacing the present service 7 journeys on this section of route.

57A – Kennishead – Thornliebank – Pollokshaws – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre – Petershill Road – Barmulloch – Balornock East Service 57/57A will operate from Silverburn or Kennishead to the City Centre serving Shawlands providing a combined frequency of every 6 minute during the day and every 15 minute at night between Thornliebank, City Centre and Red Road Flats. From the City Centre, service 57/57A will then operate via the current 56 and 12 route to Petershill Road at Red Road flats.

From Petershill Road at Red Road flats, service 57 will operate every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night to Westerhill serving Wallacewell Road and Auchinairn to replace service 56.

Service 57A will operate every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes during the night to Barmulloch and Balornock East replacing service 12.

Service 18 Small change to City Centre route, no change to frequency Extended to Charing Cross to improve City Centre access Buses every 10* minutes 18 – East Kilbride (Greenhills) – Murray – Town Centre – Calderwood – Cathkin – Burnside – Rutherglen – Bridgeton – City Centre Slightly revised City Centre route with buses now terminating at Holland Street rather than Buchanan Bus Station. Buses will continue to operate within a few minutes walk of the bus station and Buchanan Galleries.

Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency which remains every 10 minutes or better during the day and every 15 minutes at night.

Service 19 Service 11 and 19 replaced by service 19/19A Buses every 15 minutes between Provanmill – City Centre – Kelvingrove 19 – Easterhouse – Glasgow Fort – Gartloch Road – Craigend – Millerston – Provanmill – Royston Road – City Centre – Charing X – Byres Road – Summerston 19A – Robroyston – Provanmill – Royston Road – City Centre – Charing X – Byres Road – Partick – Crow Road – Anniesland – Blairdardie Service 19 will operate its current route every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night between Easterhouse Shopping Centre and City Centre. From the City Centre service 19 will extend to Summerston via Charing Cross, Kelvingrove, Partick and Byres Road replacing service 23.

Service 19A will operate every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night from Robroyston to City Centre replacing service 11. From the City Centre service 19A will

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9

New Services at a glance extend to Blairdardie via Charing Cross, Kelvingrove, Partick and Crow Road replacing service 23.

Between Provanmill – City Centre – Partick service 19/19A will provide a combined 15 minute frequency during the day and 30 minute frequency at night.

and City Centre. At peak periods Monday to Friday some service 89A/89B journeys will continue to start or finish at Lennoxtown.

Service 40 changes to simpliCITY 60/60A

Service 29

Frequency improved to every 10* minutes

Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Service 20 Service 31

No change to route or frequency Buses every 10* minutes Combines with simpliCITY 6 to provide a bus every 5 minutes between Anniesland, Great Western Road & City Centre 6A – Drumchapel – Knightswood – Anniesland – Great Western Road – City Centre (simpliCITY) Service 20 will be renumbered to operate as service 6A and will operate every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night between Drumchapel and the City Centre via Anniesland and Great Western Road.

Between Anniesland Cross and the City Centre, service 6A will combine with service 6 to provide a frequency of every 5 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes at night.

Revised route in Mount Florida introduced. Service 31 will now operate along Carmunock Road, Kings Park Road and Cathcart Road and will miss out the small section of route Carmunock Road between Second Avenue and Letherby Drive.

Service 33 Service 33 will no longer operate. Between Parkhead, Greenfield, Cranhill and Easterhouse service 33 will be replaced by a revised route on service 46. This will provide new links to Glasgow Fort, and a more comprehensive timetable which will include earlier, later and Sunday journeys being provided.

Service 34 Service 21

Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Revised route and timetable introduced. Service 21 will be revised to operate between East Kilbride (Gardenhall) and City centre with the section of route to Lindsayfield no longer being served. The timetable will be revised to operate every 30 minutes from East Kilbride to the City Centre and every 15 minutes from Cathkin to the City Centre.

Extra trips will operate to or from East Kilbride during peak commuting hours to provide a 15 minute frequency. At night service 21 will operate every 60 minutes between Gardenhall and the City Centre and every 30 minutes between Cathkin and the City Centre. The city centre terminus for Service 21 will also be moved from North Frederick Street to Wellington Street with a slightly revised City Centre route as a result.

Service 23 Service 23 changes to simpliCITY 3 No change to route or frequency over current Govan – City Centre route Buses every 10* minutes 3 – Govan – Crookston – Pollok – Silverburn – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre – Charing X – Partick – Whiteinch – Scotstoun – Lincoln Avenue – Drumchapel (simpliCITY) Service 23 will be renumbered to operate as service 3 and will operate from Govan Bus Station to the City Centre every 10 minutes during the day and 30 minutes at night via Silverburn and Shawlands.

From the City Centre service 3 will replace service 9 and operate to Drumchapel Station via Charing Cross, Kelvingrove, Partick, Whiteinch, Shawlands and Lincoln Avenue.

Service 3 will operate via Sauchiehall Street rather than Argyle Street. The section of route between City Centre and Summerston and City Centre and Blairdardie will be replaced by service 19/19A. Check out the information page for service 19 for full details.

Service 27A/27B Service 27A/27B will be renumbered to operate as service 89/89A/89B and doubled in frequency to operate every 15 minutes during the day. Service 89 will operate every 30 minutes between Kilsyth (Northfield) and City Centre serving Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs and Springburn Expressway. Service 89A/89B will operate every 30 minutes from from Torrance or Strathkelvin Retail Park to City Centre via Mavis Valley (89B), Bishopbriggs and Springburn Expressway.

Together service 89/89A/89B will provide a fast bus every 15 minutes during the day between Bishopbriggs and City Centre.

Combined with existing service 88, service 89/89A/89B will provide buses every 7/8 minutes daytime between Bishopbriggs

New

Services 40/40A

Service 36 With the exception of some early morning journeys to or from Cumbernauld, service 36 will be replaced by service 38C. Check out the details for service 38 for full details.

Combines with service 61 to provide a bus every 5 minutes between Maryhill & City Centre 60/60A – Easterhouse – Glasgow Fort – Barlanark – Shettleston – Parkhead – Duke Street – City Centre – Maryhill Road – Canniesburn Toll then either Drumchapel – Clydebank (60) or Hillfoot – Milngavie (60A) Service 40 will be renumbered to operate as service 60/60A and will operate from Easterhouse, Shettleston, Parkhead, City Centre, Maryhill and Canniesburn Toll every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. From Canniesburn service 60 will operate to Drumchapel and Clydebank to replace service 40. Service 60A will operate to Hillfoot and Milngavie to replace service 119.

Between Drumchapel and Clydebank service 60 will be revised to operate along Drumry Road East and will no longer serve Great Western Retail Park. Additional journeys on service 60 will operate between Drumchapel (Glenkirk Drive) and Clydebank serving Tallant Road and Kinfauns Drive to provide a bus at least every 10 minutes during the day on common sections of route.

Journeys to or from Glenkirk Drive will be numbered M60.

Most daytime journeys on service 60/M60 will extend to serve Clydebank Asda and will no longer extend to Clydebank College.

Service 41 No change to route or frequency Buses every 10* minutes 41 – Easterhouse – Edinburgh Road – Carntyne – Duke Street – City Centre

Service 38 Revised route and timetable introduced

Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Replaces service 36, 42 and 213 Buses every 5 minutes between Giffnock – Shawlands – City Centre – Alexandra Parade 38 – Easterhouse – Glasgow Fort – Garthamlock – Ruchazie – Riddrie – Alexandra Parade – City Centre – Pollokshaws Road – Shawlands – Giffnock – Woodfarm – Rouken Glen 38B – Barlanark – Carntyne – Riddrie – Alexandra Parade – City Centre – Pollokshaws Road – Shawlands – Giffnock – Woodfarm – Rouken Glen 38C – Chryston – Muirhead – Stepps – Millerston – Riddrie – Alexandra Parade – City Centre – Pollokshaws Road – Shawlands – Giffnock – Woodfarm – Rouken Glen 38E – Baillieston – Edinburgh Road – Alexandra Parade – City Centre – Pollokshaws Road – Shawlands – Giffnock – Woodfarm – Rouken Glen Service 38 will continue to operate from Newton Mearns or Eastwood Toll and journeys that start or finish at Rouken Glen/Woodfarm will be renumbered to operate as service 38B, 38C and 38E. Combined these will provide a bus every every 5 minutes to the City Centre via Giffnock and Shawlands. Service 38 will continue to operate to or from Easterhouse every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

Journeys that currently terminate in the city centre will be extended along Alexandra Parade to replace services 36, 42 and 213 and provide a 5 minute service during the day and a 16 minute service at night as far as Alexandra Park. Service 38B will operate to or from Barlanark replacing service 42 every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night.

Service 38C will operate to or from Chryston replacing service 36 every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night. Service 38E will operate to or from Baillieston replacing service 213 with the exception of the Bargeddie – Baillieston section of route. Service 38E will operate every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night.

Buses to Chryston and Baillieston will no longer depart from Buchanan Bus Station instead serving service 38 stops throughout the City. Some Monday-Friday commuter journeys will continue to serve Spiersbridge.

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

Service 42 Service 42 will be revised to operate every 20 minutes during the day Monday to Saturday, between Garscadden and Partick Bus Station. Within Garscadden the route of service 42 will be extended to operate via Dyke Road, Kelso Street and Alderman Road. Links to or from the City Centre from Drumchapel and Garscadden will be provided by an additional variant of The One which will provide a fast express service every 20 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night via Scotstoun and the Clydeside Expressway. Between the City Centre and Barlanark, service 42 will be replaced by journeys on service 38B.

Service 43 Revised route and timetable introduced. On Mondays to Saturdays service 43 will be revised to operate between Easterhouse and Parkhead Forge via Wardie Road, Westerhouse Road, Edinburgh Road then via current route with the exception that buses will no longer operate via Wellhouse Crescent. The timetable will be slightly revised but with no change to the current frequency. On Sundays service 43 will continue to extend to the City Centre via Bridgeton. For alternative services between London Road and City Centre please refer to the service 64 timetable.

Service 44 Service 44 changes to simpliCITY 4/4A Buses every 10* minutes between Muirend – City Centre – Hyndland Combines with simpliCITY 6 to provide a bus every 5 minutes between Muirend & City Centre 4/4A – Eaglesham (4A) or Newton Mearns (4) – Clarkston – Muirend – Cathcart – Battlefield – Victoria Road – City Centre – Charing Cross – University Avenue – Hyndland then either Broomhill – Jordanhill – Lincoln Avenue – Knightswood (4) or Hyndland Road, Kelvindale, Anniesland X – Anniesland (Fulton Street) (4A)

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

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May 2013

New Services at a glance Service 44 will be renumbered to operate as service 4/4A and will operate current route from Newton Mearns (service 4) or Eaglesham (service 4A) to Hyndland serving Clarkston, Muirend, Cathcart, Battlefield, Victoria Road, City Centre, and University Avenue.

From Hyndland service 4 and 4A will serve different routes with service 4 serving the current 44 route to Broomhill, Jordanhill, Lincoln Avenue and Knighstwood.

Service 4A will serve Hyndland, Kelvindale, Anniesland Cross and Fulton Street every 30 minutes during the day with no service at night and partly replaces service 11. Frequency will be every 10 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes at night between Muirend – City Centre – Hyndland.

From outer sections of route buses will generally operate every 20 or 30 minutes during the day and every 30 or 60 minutes at night. More buses will operate during peak periods over most parts of service 4/4A.

7A – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Kings Park – Rutherglen – Burnside – Cambuslang – Westburn – Newton Farm Service 7/7A will operate from Summerston to the City Centre via Saracen Cross replacing service 54. Buses will operate on an improved frequency of every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

From the City Centre, service 7/7A will continue to operate via the present service 7 and 12 route to Toryglen Asda. From there service 7 will then operate four journeys per hour direct (not via Prospecthill Circus) to Rutherglen Town Centre, partly replacing service 12.

Service 7A journeys will operate two journeys per hour via Kings Park, Rutherglen Main Street, Stonelaw Road, Burnside, Dukes Road, Cambuslang, and Westburn to Newton Farm replacing the present service 7 journeys on this section of route.

Service 62 No change to current route or frequency New buses with leather seating and free WiFi introduced 2 – Faifley – Clydebank – Scotstoun – Whiteinch – Partick – City Centre – Parkhead – Shettleston – Baillieston – Coatbridge – Airdrie Service 62 will be renumbered to operate as service 2 but there is no change to the current route or timetable. A fleet of brand new buses are being introduced to upgrade this service. These buses will have features such as leather seating and free WiFi and represent an investment of over £7 million on this service.

Service 56

Service 45 Changes to simpliCITY 10 between Auchinairn and City Centre

Changes to simpliCITY 10 between Darnley and City Centre

Changes to simpliCITY 57A between Kennishead and City Centre

Changes to simpliCITY 57 between Auchinairn and City Centre

10 – Auchinairn – Springburn – Sighthill – City Centre – Ibrox – Corkerhill – Silverburn Shopping Centre – Darnley (simpliCITY)

10 – Darnley – Silverburn Shopping Centre – Corkerhill – Ibrox – City Centre – Sighthill – Springburn – Auchinairn

Between Auchinairn and City Centre, service 45 will be replaced by new service 10 which will operate along the current route as service 45 every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. From the City Centre, service 10 will operate to Silverburn Shopping Centre and Darnley via Ibrox and Corkerhill replacing the route of current service 56.

Service 10 will operate between Darnley and City Centre serving Silverburn and Paisley Road West replacing service 56 every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. From the City Centre service 10 will operate to Auchinairn serving Sighthill and Springburn to replace service 45.

57A – Kennishead – Thornliebank – Pollokshaws – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre – Petershill Road – Barmulloch – Balornock East (simpliCITY) Between Kennishead and City Centre, service 45 will be replaced by service 57A which will operate the same current route as service 45 every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. From the City Centre, service 57A will operate to Balornock East via Petershill Road and Barmulloch replacing the route of current service 12.

57 – Westerhill – Auchinairn – Balornock East – Petershill Road – City Centre – Pollokshaws Road – Shawlands – Pollokshaws – Thornliebank – Darnley – South Nitshill – Silverburn Shopping Centre Service 57 will operate between Westerhill and City Centre serving Auchinairn and Balornock East replacing service 56 every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night.

From the City Centre service 57 will continue to operate its current route to Silverburn Shopping Centre serving Pollokshaws Road, Thornliebank, Darnley and South Nitshill.

Service 57

Service 46 Service 46 will be diverted between Greenfield and Easterhouse to operate via Carntyne Square, Cranhill, Gartloch Road and Glasgow Fort to replace service 33. In Easterhouse service 46 will serve Wardie Road and Lochend Road to replace service 43.

Passengers travelling between Shettleston and Easterhouse will still be able to use the more frequent service 60/60A.

Service 49

No change to route or frequency between Silverburn and City Centre Extended from City Centre to Balornock East and Auchinairn Combines with service 57A to provide a bus every 6 minutes between Thornliebank, Shawlands, City Centre and Red Road Flats

Service 49 is revised to operate between Southpark and Govan with no change to frequency. On Sundays buses will continue to extend to Shawlands. Service 29 provides a partial alternative service in the Spiersbridge area.

Service 53 Due to low passenger usage, service 53 will no longer be operate. Service 3 will continue to provide a service in the Kingsland Drive area. Service 9/9A will provide a partial replacement between Paisley Road West and Penilee/Braehead.

Service X8 will continue to provide a service between Silverburn and Pollok and additional local journeys numbered M8 will increase the frequency of this service to every 10 minutes over this section of route.

57 – Silverburn Shopping Centre – South Nitshill – Darnley – Thornliebank – Pollokshaws – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre – Petershill Road – Balornock East – Auchinairn – Westerhill Between Silverburn Shopping Centre and City Centre the route of service 57 is unchanged and will continue to operate every 12 minutes during the day and every 30 at night.

From the City Centre, service 57 will be extended to Westerhill serving Petershill Road, Balornock East and Auchinairn replacing service 56.

Together with service 57A from Kennishead, service 57 will provide a bus every 6 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes at night between Thornliebank Station, City Centre and Red Road flats serving Shawlands.

Service 61

Service 54

No change to route or frequency

Service 54 changes to new simpliCITY 7/7A

Frequency improved to every 10* minutes

Frequency improved to every 10* minutes

Combines wit

7 – Summerston – Cadder – Saracen X – City Centre – Victoria Road – Toryglen Asda – Toryglen – Rutherglen

61 – Summerston – Maryhill Road – City Centre – Parkhead – Tollcross – Sandyhills

For network updates

Service 61 will be improved to operate 10 minutes during the day serving its current route. Combined with service 60/60A, service 61 will provide a frequency of every 5 minutes or better between City Centre and Maryhill Road.

Service 64 Slightly revised route and timetable introduced. Service 64 will be revised to terminate at Stockwell Street.

Services 65/65A Revised route and timetable introduced. Service 65 will be revised to terminate at Halfway, Cambuslang. The section of route to Cairns and Drumsagard will no longer be operated, however partial alternatives are available on service 263 and 267 on Hamilton Road.

Service 66 Service 66 changes to simpliCITY 6 No change to route but frequency improved to every 10* minutes Combines with service 4/4A to provide buses every 5 minutes between Muirend & City Centre Combines with service 6A to provide buses every 5 minutes between Anniesland, Great Western Road & City Centre 6 – East Kilbride (Calderwood) – Town Centre – Murray – Westwood – Busby – Clarkston – Muirend – Cathcart – Battlefield – Victoria Road – City Centre – Gt Western Rd – Anniesland – Knightswood – Clydebank – Mountblow Service 66 will be renumbered to operate as service 6 but will continue to operate the same route between East Kilbride, City Centre and Mountblow. Frequency is improved to operate every 10 minutes during the day and evening frequency remains unchanged.

Combined with service 4/4A, service 6 will provide a bus every 5 minutes or less between Muirend – Cathcart – Battlefield – Victoria Road – City Centre.Combined with service 6A, service 6 will provide a 5 minute frequency between City Centre and Annielsand via Great Western Road.

Service 74 Slightly revised timetable introduced.

Service 75 No change to current route Frequency improved to every 7* minutes 75 – Castlemilk – Menock Road – Hampden – Toryglen Asda – Aitkenhead Road – City Centre – Possil – Saracen X – Milton Service 75 will be improved to operate every 7/8 minutes during the day with no change to current route.

Service 88 Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

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New Services at a glance Service 90

Service N12 to Auchinairn

Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Renumbered to operate as service N57. Slightly revised route and timetable introduced. Revised to operate serve Balornock rather than Barmulloch.

Service 92 Due to low passenger use, service 92 will no longer be operated.

Service N36 Due to low passenger use, this service will no longer operate.

Service 118 Renumbered to operate as service 6B and slightly revised timetable introduced.

Service N40 to Clydebank Renumbered to operate as service N60 and revised route introduced. Service N60 will serve Drumry Road East rather than Great Western Retail Park.

Service 119

SERVICE NUMBER CHANGES Current New

Section of route

1

1B

Helensburgh – Dumbarton – Clydebank – Scotstoun – City Centre

1B

1E

Balloch – Bonhill – Clydebank – Scotstoun – City Centre

2

M2

Toryglen Asda – Rutherglen – Spittal – Croftfoot

3

M3

Milton – Stobhill Hospital – Springburn – Possilpark – City Centre

6

M6

Paisley – Silverburn Shopping Centre

7

7/7A Halfway – Rutherglen – Kingspark – Victoria Road – City Centre

9

9A

Service 119 changes to simpliCITY 60A

Service N40 to Easterhouse

No change to frequency Combines with service 60 to provide a bus every 10 minutes between Canniesburn Toll and City Centre 60/60A – Easterhouse – Glasgow Fort – Barlanark – Shettleston – Parkhead – Duke Street – City Centre – Maryhill Road – Canniesburn Toll then either Drumchapel – Clydebank (60) or Hillfoot – Milngavie (60A) Service 119 will be replaced by service 60A and will operate current route from Milngavie to City Centre every 20 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night. From the City Centre buses will extend to Easterhouse serving Argyle Street, Duke Street, Parkhead and Shettleston.

Service 60A will combine with service 60 from Clydebank to provide a 10 minute frequency service between Canniesburn Toll and City Centre.

Service 120 Slightly revised timetable introduced.

Service 140 Service 140 will be renumbered service M60 and operate a revised route and timetable between Drumchapel and Clydebank. Between Drumchapel and Clydebank service M60 will be revised to operate along Tallant Road and Kinfauns Drive in Drumchapel and along Kirkoswald Drive in Clydebank.

Service 189 Due to low passenger usage, service 189 will no longer be operated by First. However an alternative service will be provided Skyline Coaches. Please contact Traveline for details.

Renumbered to operate as service N60 but no change to route or timetable.

Service N62

Renumbered to operate as service N6.

Service X3 will be revised to operate from Seafar to the Town Centre then via current X3 route to Glasgow. Within Seafar on journeys to Glasgow, buses will operate in the opposite direction (clockwise) to the current X4 service and therefore passengers should board at what are currently towards Abronhill stops. The frequency of service X3 will be revised to operate every 30 minutes during the day with additional journeys operating during weekday morning and afternoon commuting hours. Monday to Friday peak hour journeys to or from Carrickstone will no longer operate.

Services X4/X5/X80 Revised timetable introduced on service X5 with buses operating every 30 minutes during the day with additional journeys operating during weekday morning and evening commuting hours. Service X4 and X80 will no longer be operated, with alternative buses for Seafar now provided by service X3.

Slightly revised timetable introduced with additional local journeys numbered M8 introduced between Pollok and Silverburn to increase the frequency to every 10 minutes over this section of route.

Revised timetable introduced.

3

Drumchapel – Scotstoun – Partick – City Centre

11

19A Robroyston – Provanmill – Royston Road – City Centre

12

7

12

57A Balornock East – Barmulloch – Red Road Flats – Petershill Road – City Centre

20

6A

Drumchapel – Anniesland – Great Western Road – Kelvinbridge – City Centre

23

3

Govan – Silverburn – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre

23

19

Summerston – Maryhill – Byres Road – Kelvingrove – City Centre

23

19A Blairdardie – Crow Road – Partick – Kelvingrove – City Centre

27A /B

89/ Torrance – Bishopbriggs – Springburn Expressway A/B – City Centre

38

38B/ Woodfarm – Giffnock – Shawlands C/E – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre

Rutherglen – Toryglen Asda – Victoria Road – City Centre

*No change to main Newton Mearns – City Centre – Easterhouse 38 40

60

Clydebank – Drumchapel – Maryhill Road – City Centre

40

60/ Easterhouse – Shettleston – Parkhead 60A – City Centre

42

38B Barlanark – Alexandra Parade – City Centre

44

4

Newton Mearns – Clarkston – Muirend – Cathcart – Victoria Road – City Centre

44

4A

Eaglesham – Clarkston – Muriend – Cathcart – Victoria Road – City Centre

44

4*

Knightswood – Lincoln Avenue – Jordanhill – Broomhill – Hyndland – City Centre

* 4A also covers Hyndland – City Centre

Service 213 Service 213 will be replaced by service 38E between Baillieston and City Centre. Please refer to the change information for service 38 for details. Service 2 will provide an alternative service between Bargeddie and City Centre on Coatbridge Road.

Service 241 Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Service 747 Route revised to serve Southern General Hospital grounds.

Revised timetable introduced.

Service X81 Revised to operate Monday to Friday peak hours only. Service X81 will be revised to start and finish at Holland Street rather than Buchanan Bus Station.

Service X85 Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

Service X86 Revised to operate Monday to Friday peak hours only. New service 89 will provide an all day alternative between Kilsyth and Glasgow.

Service N12 to Rutherglen Renumbered to operate as service N7. Slightly revised route and timetable introduced. Service N7 no longer serves Prospecthill Circus.

New

9

Service X3

Service X8

Service 208

Buses to or from Linwood and Paisley continue to operate as service 9

Renumbered to operate as service N2.

Service N66

Braehead/Penilee – Cardonald – Paisley RoadWest – Ibrox – City Centre

Service X87 Slightly revised timetable introduced but no change to frequency.

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

45

10

Auchinairn – Springburn – City Centre

45

57A Kennishead – Shawlands – Pollokshaws Road – City Centre

54

7/7A Summerston – Cadder – Saracen Cross – City Centre

56

57

Auchinairn – Balornock East – Red Road Flats – Petershill Road – City Centre

56

10

Darnley – Silverburn – Corkerhill – Ibrox – City Centre

62

2

Faifley – Clydebank – Partick – City Centre – Parkhead – Baillieston/Airdrie

66

6

East Kilbride – Clarkston – Victoria Road – City Centre – Anniesland – Clydebank

119

60A Milngavie – Hillfoot – Canniesburn – Maryhill – City Centre

140

M60 Drumchapel – Clydebank

Any service not listed above will continue to operate unchanged.

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity

Shout page 12

29/4/13

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12

May 2013

FUTURE THRILLS: A computer generated image showing how the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome could look when it is packed during next year’s Commonwealth Games.

GEARING UP FOR GAMES SIMPLICITY has been launched as Glasgow gears up to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city for the Commonweath Games in 2014.

TOP COMMONWEALTH GAMES VENUE:

One of the new state-of-the -art buses arrives at the Emirates Arena at Parkhead.

Designed to cope with the influx, the network will continue to transport city-based customers punctually, smoothly and safely while also enabling sports fans to attend venues and explore the former European City of Culture.

City drivers and support staff already have experience of delivering public transport during a major sporting event after First Group was contracted to operate buses during the London Olympics.

A total of 48 First Glasgow employees were among thousands of UK colleagues running services at the 2012 Games. They are already passing on their knowledge as Glasgow prepares to host 71 Commonwealth teams next July and August.

First Glasgow Operations Director John Cahill said: “It’s going to be fantastic to see people from the four corners of the world descending on Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games and we can’t wait to help them get around the city.

“Our SimpliCITY network is perfectly set up to help them enjoy sports at 14 different venues while also enjoying the sights and sounds of Glasgow.

“Our network planners will, of course, do much more work nearer the time to ensure our high frequency timetables are up to it.” ● First buses will transport

hundreds of thousands of and visitors and spectators between 14 Commonwealth Games venues, including iconic stadia like Celtic Park, Hampden and Ibrox, the Emirates Arena and the purpose built Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.

New

HEAR ALL ABOUT IT: First Glasgow Driver

Tracey King is part of the Information Bus team who will touring the city to spreading the word about the benefits of the new SimpliCITY network.

Information Bus to tour the city giving out maps and timetables A SPECIALLY designed Information Bus is carrying out a promotional tour of Glasgow during May to highlight the launch of SimpliCITY. Re-painted in the new First Glasgow livery, it will be well stocked with new timetables, route maps and promotional material for the new network.

Staff will also be on board to answer questions as First does everything it can to support customers. And look out for the BusyBodies characters making an appearance on the bus.

First Glasgow Commercial Manager John Elliot said: “We fully understand that some customers will have some concerns about the impending alterations to some routes and the re-numbering of services as part of our launch of the

SimpliCITY network.

“That’s why we are touring the city before and after the launch with our Information Bus so we can answer questions and hand out as many new maps and timetables as possible.

“Our network planners are highly experienced at managing change and we’ve been though a wide-ranging consultation with customers, partners, politicians and stakeholders to make sure we get this right. But we’re always happy to listen so customers can still give us their views when they come and see us at the Information Bus. “We do value their opinions so any information they give us can only serve to further improve the network and improve our services for all our customers.”

First Glasgow shortlisted for three top transport industry accolades FIRST Glasgow has been shortlisted three times for this year’s Scottish Transport Awards – one of the transport industry’s most respected awards ceremonies.

SPORTING LEGEND: Cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy test rides the

track at the new velodrome which was named after him.

network helpline call 0141 423 6600

Two services have made the shortlist for the Best Bus Service Award – its Glasgow Shuttle Airport Link and The One, which links Glasgow city centre with Scotstoun, Clydebank, Dumbarton, Balloch and Helensburgh. The One was also shortlisted in the Excellence in Travel Information and Marketing category.

First Glasgow Managing Director Ronnie Park said: “I’m delighted the company has been shortlisted for these important awards. We’ve worked incredibly hard to improve our

services to Scotstoun and West Dunbartonshire.

“We’ve re-branded the route, which was previously known as the 204/205/214 and is now called ‘The One’ and invested £6million in 40 brand new buses which are fitted with leather seats and complementary WiFi.” Ronnie Park also pointed tothe success of the Glasgow Shuttle which provides a direct link from the city centre to the airport up to every 10 minutes. “Our Glasgow Shuttle goes from strength to strength,” he said.

●

The Scottish Transport Awards will take place on June 20 in Glasgow.

or visit www.firstgroup.com/simplicity