Local Conservative economy spokesman, Johnny Andrews, has described the news that Transport for London has ordered 200 new Routemaster buses from Ballymena firm, Wrightbus, as “a boost for the local economy and for one of our most successful, innovative companies”.
“This is excellent news, particularly for Ballymena and Antrim. Wrightbus continues to show that Northern Ireland companies can compete against the very best, in the UK market and farther afield”, Johnny commented. “The company’s success has been built upon innovation, research and development. It is an inspiration for other local businesses and entrepreneurs and this latest order will secure more jobs and prosperity into the future.”
“The Conservative Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has made clear his commitment to using a brilliant British firm which is delivering the best products to an international as well as a domestic market. The new Routemaster is one of Wrightbus’s most impressive achievements, its distinctive design has quickly become a national icon and the latest order is an important endorsement of the vehicle. Northern Ireland is proud of the company and we need to do everything possible to encourage other great local businesses like Wrightbus.”