First Bus reveals plans for investment and jobs in Rochdale

Paul Townley flanked by instructors Mark Thorpe (left) and Keith Fieldhouse test the training bus in Bee Network livery at Rochdale Interchange

First Bus has announced plans for major investment in a Rochdale bus depot and the creation of up 50 jobs.

The bus operator is preparing to take responsibility for running Rochdale bus services in the Bee Network from March and has begun significant improvements to the former Transdev site on Corporation Road and launched a recruitment campaign for drivers and engineers.

Some £750,000 will be invested in the depot with a focus on enhanced engineering facilities, including a new double height workshop bay for vehicle repair and maintenance. The yard area will also be improved to provide better space for operations.

The job opportunities are likely to mean more than 30 new drivers and 12 engineering roles alongside current employees of Transdev that will transfer to First Bus.

Paul Townley, General Manager, said: “We’re delighted to have agreed the lease of the site and are keen to get started on major improvements. The investment we are making will create an excellent working environment and we are already seeing strong interest in the vacancies available.”

He added: “This new depot supports high-skilled jobs locally and regionally. As we continue to invest in the Rochdale area First Bus is determined to help build the economy and link key communities as we support the latest phase of the Bee Network.”

When the depot becomes part of the Bee Network, First Bus will operate more than 30 routes in the Rochdale and Bury area together with six school services using a fleet of over 60 buses and capacity to expand this to 90 vehicles.

Full details of the vacancies, pay rates and how to apply can be found by visiting 
https://careers.firstbus.co.uk/jobs/vacancy/find/results/