History
The BIG BUS- from design to construction.
Timeline of events.
1. As part of Action Cancer’s 5 year strategic plan, Action Cancer envisages a multi-purpose cancer resource mobile unit to replace the old mobile unit.
2. Originally the concept is a double-decker coach, the ‘BIG BUS’, capable of providing many of Action Cancer’s life saving and support services to the people of Northern Ireland. Though the design was to change dramatically over the next year, the name stuck.
3. The ‘BIG BUS’ design becomes a 45ft articulated lorry with expanding pods, the first of its kind in Europe
4. Brown’s Coachworks, based in Moira, wins the contract to construct the BIG BUS. Our largest corporate sponsor SuperValu commit to raising £252,000 of the initial start up cost of the BIG BUS and running costs of £120,000 per year for at least 3 years.
5. Action Cancer patron, and face of the old Mobile Unit, Nuala McKeever, comes on board to promote the new BIG BUS.
6. 29th June 2006 The construction of the BIG BUS begins.
7. 7th July 2006 Just over a week later and the trailer shell is complete, the distinct look and layout of the BIG BUS can now be clearly seen.
8. 27th July 2006 The end of July and wiring and electrics begin in the interior.
9. 17th August 2006 Volvo Europe Head Quarters invite Action Cancer to Belgium to see the BIG BUS cab coming off the assembly line.
10. 23rd August 2006 The final touches to the trailer are added, such as the disabled access lift (above left). The interior nears completion.
11. The final branding is picked for the outside of the BIG BUS.
12. 25th September 2006 Gloria Hunniford, who also agrees to fund a radiographer post on board, launches the BIG BUS at Hillsborough Castle. The multi-service mobile cancer resource centre is ready to begin its journey, travelling to every area of Northern Ireland.