Bus users in Waterford will soon see a much improved service, according to Bus Eireann.

A big increase in the frequency of buses throughout Waterford City on all services and on all key routes; a fleet of 17 new buses, which are low-emission and disability friendly; and re-vamped bus shelters will be coming on stream.

The company recently won a tender process for the Waterford City routes, beating five other competitors.

Bus Eireann’s new service will be launched in the coming weeks, a launch date has yet to be set.

Bus Éireann’s Operations Manager Mick Faherty gave the details of the improved service to councillors in Waterford. He said the bus stops will change from red and white to blue and white:

“TII, Transport Infrastructure for Ireland will be the new branding, so overnight before the launch all the bus stops will be replaced.”

Each stop will have an ID tag and passengers will be able to put a code into their phone to see exactly where their bus is.

Councillors questioned whether the stops would have electronic displays, however the company’s operations manager said there was a move towards phone apps for up-to-date information.

The frequency of routes will increase, with a Sunday service running from 8am to 11.30pm.