£62million Wrightbus deal welcomed

The £62million contract was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim by London Mayor Boris Johnson.

First Minister, Arlene Foster and the deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness welcomed the news, Foster said: “Wrightbus is a shining example of a successful indigenous Northern Ireland business.

“Innovation is a key element of economic success and Wrightbus has once again demonstrated their manufacturing credentials.

“This latest contract not only results in almost 200 Routemaster buses servicing London but it is a timely boost for the Northern Ireland manufacturing sector.”

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “Wrightbus is a flourishing business and this latest contract puts them in the manufacturing fast lane.

“The success in winning contracts reflects the sharp Wrightbus focus on innovation and marketing which has resulted in it becoming a major player on the global market.

“This follow up order is testament to the quality of the hard work and skill of their workforce and the benefits to our economy will extend beyond the gates of Wrightbus.”

The production of 1,000 New Routemaster buses in Northern Ireland by the Wrightbus Group, which employs 2,000 people, has sustained 300 jobs, created 100 new jobs and supported 120 apprenticeships.