The Colourful Era of London Buses: 1985-2005

The period between 1985 and 2005 marked a memorable time for London's iconic double-decker buses. Passenger transportation in the city witnessed a significant transformation, both in terms of vehicle design and operations. These years were known for embracing vibrant colors, eye-catching liveries, and the of modern technologies. In this article, we will take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to explore the colourful era of London buses from 1985 to 2005.

The Evolution of London Buses

London's buses have a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. However, it was during the 1980s that a notable shift towards modernization occurred. The London Transport Executive (LTE) introduced several new features to enhance passenger experience and improve efficiency.

London's Buses: The Colourful Era 1985-2005

by Linda Collins (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	58212 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	188 pages

FREE

One of the most significant changes during this era was the of bright and bold liveries. The traditional red buses were now accompanied by a wide array of vibrant colors, including blues, greens, yellows, and oranges. These colorful buses added a unique charm to the streets of London and became iconic symbols of the city.

Technological Advancements

The period between 1985 and 2005 witnessed substantial advancements in technology, which had a profound impact on the operations and efficiency of London buses. With the advent of computer systems and GPS, bus scheduling and tracking became more accurate, resulting in improved reliability for passengers.

The installation of CCTV cameras inside buses also ensured a safer journey for commuters. Additionally, London buses started adopting environmentally friendly technologies, such as low-emission engines and hybrid buses, contributing to the city's efforts to reduce pollution.

Memorable Designs and Liveries

The colourful era of London buses was not only defined by technological advancements but also showcased an explosion of creativity in terms of design and aesthetics. Various transport companies commissioned renowned artists to create unique liveries, turning buses into rolling works of art.

One of the most iconic liveries of this era was the "London Pride" design, featuring bold patterns of red, yellow, and blue. Another notable livery was the "Country Bus" design, which portrayed picturesque rural scenes, providing a refreshing contrast to the busy city streets.

Celebrating Diversity

The 1980s and 1990s were a time of cultural change and celebration of diversity in London. The colourful buses reflected this spirit by showcasing artwork and designs that represented different communities and cultural themes. It was a way to embrace the multicultural heart of the city and foster a sense of pride among its residents.

The End of an Era

As we entered the new millennium, London's buses underwent another transformation. The of a standardized livery across different bus operators marked the end of the colourful era. The iconic red buses returned as the predominant feature on the streets, paying homage to the city's traditional identity.

However, the memories of the colourful era between 1985 and 2005 remain etched in the hearts of Londoners and visitors alike. The iconic designs and vibrant buses continue to be cherished, reminding us of a time when London's streets were a vibrant canvas of creativity and diversity.

The colourful era of London buses from 1985 to 2005 represents a significant period of change and innovation in the city's transportation system. The of bold liveries, technological advancements, and the celebration of diversity all contributed to creating a unique and memorable experience for passengers.

Although the era eventually gave way to a more standardized and traditional approach, the legacy of those colourful buses lives on. They continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when London's buses were not only a means of getting from A to B but also a visual feast for the eyes.

London's Buses: The Colourful Era 1985-2005

by Linda Collins (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	58212 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	188 pages

FREE

Ask any tourists what colour London’s buses are and they will say red - and so they are. However, that has not quite always been the case as from 1985 until around 2005 there were buses in all sorts of colours running around the Greater London area. They did not even necessarily say that they were London buses - some claimed to be Kentish buses, while others had intriguing fleet-names like Armchair, Blue Triangle or Grey-Green. Even London Buses themselves started running vehicles in the Bexley area in a blue-and-cream livery. How did this situation come about, and why did it end?

This book looks at the period of route tendering and privatisation, the variety of operators who came to work London’s bus routes and the range of vehicle types and liveries they brought to the capital.