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National Express is spending millions on a “platinum” bus service in Birmingham and West Midlands next year – with drivers kitted out in SUITS.

The company also says the new 58 top-of-the-range buses will boast a “sophisticated slick two-tone grey exterior”, marking them out from the usual red and white fleet.

Details of the premium routes are yet to be announced but will come with new bus shelters showing real-time travel information. The plans are part of a £34 million investment from National Express in West Midland buses.

Alongside the “platinum” range, there will be an additional 113 buses added to routes around the region. Revamped paintwork will be “maroon” and bosses hope the buses will be more comfortable for passengers.

Peter Coates, managing director of National Express West Midlands, said: “These new vehicles will ensure that hundreds of thousands of our customers have smoother, cleaner and more enjoyable journeys. The buses, which are built in the UK, will have more comfortable seats, better lighting and crystal clear CCTV.

“Our customers regularly tell us that newer buses make for a better journey and that is why we have invested a record amount in new vehicles.”

The announcement has been welcomed by public transport coordinator Centro, which pledged to work in partnership with National Express to deliver 300 new buses to the region.

Centro chairman Coun John McNicholas, said: “The vast majority of journeys made by public transport in the West Midlands are by bus which is why this record investment in new vehicles is to be welcomed. These new buses use the latest low pollution engines and are also British built, which means they can not only provide a credible alternative to the car, but are good for the environment and good for the economy.”

Earlier this month a £4 billion vision for transport in Birmingham was unveiled, including a network of rapid transit buses and trams.