The first of Bermuda's new low floor buses are set to arrive next month, dramatically increasing carrying capacity.

Fifteen $300,000 European buses will carry slightly fewer seated passengers down from 38 to 32-34 but will allow wheelchair access plus greater standing room, allowing up to 65 people to travel, compared to about 50.

Director of Public Transport Dan Simmons said three would be arriving in March. A total of 15 are on order with more expected to come every two weeks or so.

Many will be operating on the busy West End routes but PTB are predicting revenues to be tight his year with the recession hitting tourist numbers.

And there was no news in the Budget about Government's promise of free public transport, made in the 2007 Progressive Labour Party manifesto.

So far only students and school children have been given free travel.