News

Bus passengers in Poole are benefiting from the first phase of new state of the art technology launched this week.

Designed to help users keep tabs on when the next bus will arrive, Poole’s new ‘Real Time Information’ system, is satellite controlled and provides up-to-the-second information for passengers and drivers via a central control room.

Similar to the London Underground, passengers at specially adapted bus stops can see when the next bus is due, how long they will have to wait and whether the service is wheelchair accessible. Information at the stops is based on the position of the bus, which is tracked by satellite and can show if a bus has been held up in traffic or delayed. This information is relayed to a central control room and then sent to electronic information signs at bus stops so passengers can see exactly when the next bus is due.

Andrew Bryce, Wilts & Dorset Operations Director, said: "The new system is designed to provide a more reliable service and give those waiting for a bus confidence in when the next one will arrive. This new technology together with other major investment by Wilts & Dorset and the Council in wheelchair accessible buses, new shelters and raised kerbs, is helping to change everyone’s experience of bus journeys. Currently over 5million bus journeys are taken in Poole each year and this will take information provision about their journeys to a new higher level."

The first phase introduced on Canford Heath this week will be extended across Poole by March 2003. Once introduced, the scheme will include 80 stops fully equipped with real time information signs and new satellite linked ticket machines on all Wilts & Dorset buses.

£1.4million Government funding has been invested by the Borough of Poole in the scheme and £700k has been invested by Wilts & Dorset on new ticket machines, tracking equipment and a control centre.

Cllr Bob Williams, Executive Portfolio Holder for Environment & Regeneration, said: "This is technology for the 21^st Century which will help to revolutionise bus travel in the town. Currently 21% of residents in Poole do not have access to a car, which makes investment in bus services and public transport vital. Whilst good public transport will never replace the use of the car, as part of a major strategy, it can help to reduce congestion on our roads and provide real travel choices. Throughout this project there has been a huge commitment and vision by both the Council and Wilts & Dorset which has been central to making this project work. It is a superb example of what can be achieved for local people when true partnerships take place."