Australian ASX listed public transport operator, Kelsian has announced another International success, with the revelation that it has signed a renewed 10 year contract with the Government of Jersey in the UK, to operate the island’s bus service.
The company says however that the deal is a very strategic partnership, with Group CEO and managing director, Clint Feuerherdt acknowledging the maturity of the franchised bus market and the potential to expand into regional UK bus franchising.
Kelsian said in its statement that Jersey was recently cited as a positive reference point in franchising more regional contract areas, which it says is a credit to LibertyBus, owned by Tower Transit which is a subsidiary of the Kelsian Group. The Kelsian Group grew out of what ws originally Transit Systems.
“The LibertyBus contract announcement comes on the heels of recent renewals and reflects Kelsian Group’s global reputation for operational excellence,” Feuerherdt said.
“In defining our position as a partner of choice, we have again demonstrated our commitment to delivering world-class essential transport solutions,” he added.
“Jersey is a mature franchised bus market and the LibertyBus operation is an extremely relevant and valuable reference point as Tower Transit seeks to expand into the Regional UK bus franchising opportunity, so congratulations to the LibertyBus team for securing this significant partnership, backed by the expertise and innovation of our global network,” Feuerherdt said.
The New Jersey contract starts on the 6th April this year and will run for 10 years with possibly three, one-year extensions.
Kelsain said that LibertyBus, which is the current operator of bus services in Jersey, was selected for offering the best value for money and a range of service improvements that align with the Island’s environmental goals.
The contract includes the introduction of 22 ultra-low emission, high-capacity buses that will replace older vehicles within the first 12 months of the agreement, while the remaining fleet will undergo refurbishment in the early stages of the contract, to ensure improved comfort and reliability claims Kelsian.
Over the life of the contract, LibertyBus says it has committed to a complete 
fleet renewal in alignment with the Government of Jersey’s carbon-neutral strategy while to further enhance services, LibertyBus will exceed the number of routes and service frequencies required by the tender, claiming to provide a record high number of services to the Island’s residents.
The company says it will also introduce new self-service ticketing machines to improve customer experience, at the main station location, while faster ticketing systems will be rolled out across the bus fleet, ensuring quicker and more efficient boarding for passengers.
Samuel Ribeiro, managing director of Tower Transit said the company is delighted to have renewed the partnership with the Government of Jersey to continue to provide exceptional bus services for the next 10 years.
“This agreement will see continued investment in fleet replacement, including zero-emission vehicles. Our aim is to build on the network of services and support the Government of Jersey’s plans to deliver increased modal shift over the next decade,” Ribeiro said.
Clint Feuerherdt, Managing Director and CEO Kelsian Group
The LibertyBus contract announcement comes on the heels of recent renewals and reflects Kelsian Group’s global reputation for operational excellence. In defining our position as a partner of choice, we have again demonstrated our commitment to delivering world-class essential transport solutions.
Jersey is a mature franchised bus market and the LibertyBus operation is an extremely relevant and valuable reference point as Tower Transit seeks to expand into the Regional UK bus franchising opportunity.
