Talks between Arriva and Falcon Coaches about a deal for the Byfleet-based independent to take over the Guildford business that is part of the group’s Kent and Surrey operating company are at an advanced stage, the two parties have revealed.
Earlier in October Arriva announced that it planned to close Guildford depot, citing a long-term reduction in passenger numbers. The group currently runs around 45 buses from its base in the town, which is a much-reduced total from previous years.
At that time, Arriva said that it was working with affected staff, their representatives and Surrey County Council to ensure a continuation of services. The current discussions with Falcon Coaches are “ongoing,” the group adds.
Falcon Coaches already runs an hourly daytime service into Guildford from Woking through its Falcon Buses arm, which has a fleet that is around 25-strong. Many of those vehicles are Euro VI. The company recently took delivery of its first double-decker in the form of a new Volvo B5TL with MCV EvoSeti bodywork.
