Transport operator Arriva was launching the 27 vehicles, which will serve routes in Durham City and the surrounding area from 1 August.

The buses have low level hydraulics, which means there is no step up from the kerb to improve access for people in wheelchairs or with pushchairs.

The company said it has also improved bus timetables for the area and they are being sent out to households.

The buses will also have security cameras inside and out. In the next few months, bus travellers will be able to see "real travel times" at bus stops.