BUS operator Stagecoach is investing £6m in improving one of its key Liverpool routes.

The transport group is purchasing 46 “green” buses to boost its Liverpool-Kirkby services.

The Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 vehicles will operate along the 20, 21 and 14 routes.

Stagecoach, which owns a 49% stake in the Virgin Trains Liverpool-London rail link, said the new vehicles will be bigger, cleaner, fully accessible, more comfortable and more environmentally friendly, achieving low-emission standards.

They will also be fitted with three CCTV cameras which will be linked to an onboard TV monitor, funded by transport authority Merseytravel, to improve passenger safety and security levels.

Stephen Riggans, managing director for Stagecoach’s Merseyside operations, said: “This further £6m investment in 46 new bigger and better buses for the region underlines Stagecoach’s commitment to providing the best quality public transport in Liverpool.

“They are much greener, cleaner and perfectly suited to city transport as they are low-floor and accessible.”

Steve Holcroft, chair of Liverpool council’s bus board, said: “This is fantastic news for the city.

“Travelling by bus is a convenient way to travel into the city centre and we are always looking to make improvements to services.