TfL and Stagecoach unveil rainbow bus to celebrate and support diversity in the capital
Transport for London (TfL) and bus operator Stagecoach have teamed up to celebrate and support diversity with the capital’s first rainbow bus.
TfL and Stagecoach have based the design on the iconic LGBT rainbow flag, in celebration of those who live, visit and work in the city.
The bus will mainly operate on route 8, which runs between Bow Church and Tottenham Court Road, and will remain in operation for a year. It will also mark the 10th anniversary of TfL’s LGBT staff network group, Outbound.
“The rainbow bus is a great addition to the streets of London and is a fantastic way for us to celebrate diversity in this great city,” commented Leon Daniels, managing director of Surface Transport.
“London is the tourism capital of the world and it is fantastic that everyone who lives, visits or works in London will have an opportunity to see this bus while it’s in service. It’s a fantastic commitment by Stagecoach to sponsor the wrapping of this bus.”
The rainbow bus follows the introduction of a rainbow zebra crossing in the capital, which was rolled out in support of Pride 2014 outside Arsenal Tube Station.
Chair of Outbound, Martyn Loukes, added: “Following on from the fantastic success of the rainbow crossing last year, we wanted to create a new LGBT icon for London. What could be more iconic than a big red bus with the rainbow flag emblazoned on it, celebrating diversity and 10 years of our LGBT+ network at TfL.”
Mark Threapleton, managing director for Stagecoach London, said the company was “delighted to be able to support this important TfL project”.
“This will be a travelling advertisement, spreading the message of diversity to the hearts of our communities and visitors from across the world.”
The rainbow bus will take part in events throughout the year, including the Pride in London parade on 27 June.