Bus bosses say passengers will quickly begin to see improvements from a multi-million pound investment.

The cash is being spent on 150 new buses over two years to comply with the new Low Emissions Zone in the city centre.

First Glasgow has invested £14m this year in 75 new buses and will spend another £16m next year for another 75 to upgrades its fleet.

Each double decker bus costs £230,000 while a single decker costs £160,000.

Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director of First Glasgow, said: “This is investment we would have been making but it has been accelerated to meet the LEZ.”

Mr Jarvis said that the new buses and commitments from the council in a bus partnership will make a difference to passengers.

He said the partnership puts bus travel at a higher priority in the council’s development plan.

Mr Jarvis added: “On some routes, passengers will see the new buses already. They have padded seats, wifi and charging points to improve the experience.

“There is a lot of work with SPT the city council and other bus operators. To get the city motoring we have to improve public transport

“We will do our bit, we are doing our bit but the local authority controls the roads.”

He said there is an ambition to improve journey times in the city.

Just now the average journey speed in just 9mph and that is hoped to be improved by 20% to 12mph.

The bus industry said it was looking ahead to conditions being created where buses can thrive in Glasgow.

Paul White, Deputy Director of Confederation of Passenger Transport Scotland said; “Buses are very much part of the sustainable and active transport solution to Glasgow’s LEZ and can help achieve the Government’s climate change targets. One bus can replace up to 75 car journeys, reducing congestion and improving air quality.

“The bus industry will continue to invest in modern, greener vehicles. If the Council is able to provide an operating environment that prioritises public transport then we can maximise the benefits of this investment for the people of Glasgow.”

Councillor Anna Richardson was joined by Transport Secretary Michael Matheson to launch the LEZ, which takes effect on December 31.

They both highlighted the need to improve air quality in Glasgow

Mr Matheson, said: “This is incredibly important for the oldest and youngest in our society and those with existing cardiovascular or respiratory conditions – but is also relevant to all of us who wish to enjoy cleaner air and less polluting emissions.

Ms Richardson said: “Delivering cleaner air is a priority for our city and I’m delighted that Glasgow is leading the way by introducing the first Low Emission Zone in Scotland.

“It’s heartening to know of the clear commitment of bus operators towards improving air quality.”