Bolton-based coach builder Woodall Nicholson has acquired the intellectual property and manufacturing assets of Scarborough-based low-
access bus maker Bluebird Vehicles, which went into administration earlier this month, making 48 staff redundant.

The deal was handled by Gareth Harris and Howard Smith of KPMG’s Leeds office. Woodall Nicholson plans to integrate the business with its Mellor bus business, which carries out bus and van conversions at a factory in Rochdale.

Managing director Geoff Hudson said: “We are very proud to add the Bluebird range of buses to our automotive portfolio. The acquisition will generate more jobs in the North West and further strengthen the Mellor range.”