Northern Blue: A History of Bus Operations in Lancashire
The story of Northern Blue is a classic example of the competitive nature of the UK bus industry at the turn of the millennium. Founded by former employees of Blackburn Transport, the company evolved from a small challenger into a significant regional operator before eventually being integrated into a larger corporate network.
The Early Years and Market Competition
Northern Blue officially began operations on November 15, 1999, based in Oswaldtwistle. The company launched with a bold strategy: competing directly with Blackburn Transport (BBT). This rivalry was most evident on service 346—now known as route 1—which connected Accrington and Darwen via Blackburn.
After two months of intense competition on this mainline, Northern Blue shifted its business model. The company sold its initial commercial operations to BBT and pivoted its focus toward coaching work and school contracts.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Expansion and Strategic Acquisitions
A major turning point occurred in August 2000 when the Stratus Group, operating as Border Buses in the Lancashire area, decided to exit the region. Northern Blue, which had already secured some contracted work in Burnley, seized the opportunity to expand.
The company acquired both the Border Buses and Viscount Central businesses from the Stratus Group, taking over the operational base at Dean Mill. While the Border Buses brand was retired, Northern Blue maintained the Viscount Central name for several years to preserve its identity in the coaching sector.
Growth of the Bus Division
Following these acquisitions, the bus side of the business grew significantly. Northern Blue became a key provider for Lancashire County Council, managing a wide array of school contracts and local bus services.
Divestment of Coaching Services
By September 2005, the company decided to streamline its operations. The coaching unit, along with the Viscount Central brand, was sold to the Coach Centre in Accrington.
Regional Reach and Final Integration
Northern Blue expanded its footprint through its associated company, Lancashire County Transport, which traded as Accrington Transport. Together, they operated an extensive network of routes covering several key areas, including:
- Hyndburn
- Clitheroe
- Burnley
- Nelson
- Bolton
The era of independent operation ended on August 5, 2007, when Northern Blue Buses and Accrington Transport were purchased by Transdev Blazefield. The company was rebranded as Transdev Northern Blue. The final stage of this transition occurred on September 1, 2009, when the entity was fully integrated into Transdev in Burnley & Pendle.
Key Facts
- Founded: November 15, 1999, by former Blackburn Transport employees.
- Initial Base: Oswaldtwistle.
- Major Acquisitions: Border Buses and Viscount Central (August 2000).
- Primary Client: Lancashire County Council for school contracts.
- Acquired by: Transdev Blazefield on August 5, 2007.
- Final Integration: Merged into Transdev in Burnley & Pendle on September 1, 2009.
| Date | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 15, 1999 | Company Formation | Launched in Oswaldtwistle |
| Aug 2000 | Stratus Group Acquisition | Acquired Border Buses and Viscount Central |
| Sept 2005 | Coaching Sale | Viscount Central sold to Coach Centre |
| Aug 5, 2007 | Transdev Purchase | Rebranded as Transdev Northern Blue |
| Sept 1, 2009 | Full Integration | Merged into Transdev in Burnley & Pendle |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Northern Blue?
Northern Blue was established by two former employees of Blackburn Transport.
Which route was the site of fierce competition between Northern Blue and BBT?
The competition was most intense on service 346 (now route 1), which ran between Accrington and Darwen via Blackburn.
What happened to the Viscount Central brand?
Northern Blue kept the name for several years after acquiring it from the Stratus Group, but eventually sold the coaching unit and the name to the Coach Centre, Accrington, in September 2005.
Which areas did Accrington Transport serve?
Trading as an associated company of Northern Blue, Accrington Transport operated routes in Hyndburn, Clitheroe, Burnley, Nelson, and Bolton.
When did Northern Blue cease to be an independent brand?
The company was purchased by Transdev Blazefield on August 5, 2007, and was fully integrated into Transdev in Burnley & Pendle by September 1, 2009.