FOUR brand new buses with the lowest possible diesel emissions have taken to the roads in York.

The Optare vehicles, built at Sherburn-in-Elmet, have been acquired by Arriva to run on three routes in the city which it took over last autumn from Transdev.

They were unveiled yesterday at the Eye of York before setting off on services 24, 26 and 27, which respectively operate the York/Holgate/Acomb route, the Fulford/York/South Bank/Knavesmire route and the route between the city centre to Fulford and the University of York.

Coun Dave Merrett, cabinet member for transport at City of York Council, which funds the services, said the delivery of the new buses was fantastic news.

“They will provide an even better service to bus users on these busy routes,” he said.

“This also supports our York by Bus campaign, which aims to encourage even more people to travel by bus and increase passenger numbers by 18 per cent by 2015.”

Nigel Featham, regional managing director for Arriva Yorkshire, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this additional investment as part of our ongoing commitment in providing a quality service to the residents of York and the surrounding areas.”