21 December 2005

Electronic bus timetable information hits the streets

SPT is running a three month trial to assess new wireless technology, funded by the Scottish Executive, that provides bus timetable information at selected bus stops throughout Strathclyde.

The Intelligent Bus Information System, known as IBIS, provides electronic bus timetable information and at the touch of a button, will display the times of the next five buses due. For people with visual impairment or learning difficulties, the timetable information is given in an audio visual format using wireless technology.

SPT has also commissioned Describe Online, who provide text guides for the visually impaired, to develop information about the project on their website, www.describe-online.com

The new technology also has a real time messaging capability, for example, if roadworks are causing service delays or reminding people that a restricted service will operate on a public holiday.

One new prototype bus stop units has been installed in each of the twelve local council areas which make up Strathclyde Passenger Transport Authority and public opinion on the new system will be sought throughout the trial period for evaluation purposes.

If the trial proves successful, the operating technology can be further developed to include real time bus information.

SPT Director of Operations Douglas Ferguson welcomed the development saying: "The concept of producing electronic bus timetable information has been developed to meet two of SPT’s key policy objectives. We are making it easier for all sections of the community to use bus services and at the same time, improving the quality of information people need for their journey.

"The pilot scheme is all about getting feedback from users about their experience of the new system and I would encourage people across the Strathclyde area to give us their reaction. It is only through gauging public opinion that we’ll be able to take an informed decision about the project’s future."

To register your views on the new bus stop technology in your area, visit the SPT website by logging on to www.spt.co.uk. Your views count so if you would like to participate in SPT’s Focus Groups, please contact your local council’s Sensory Impairment Units and Disability Teams for details of meetings in your area.

ends

Note to editors

The IBIS system is installed at the following sites across Strathclyde:

• Argyll & Bute: Colquhoun St, Helensburgh
• City of Glasgow: Victoria Infirmary, Grange Road, Battlefield
• East Ayrshire: Dean Street opposite Cuthbert Place, Kilmarnock
• East Dunbartonshire: Council offices, Lenzie Road, Kirkintilloch
• East Renfrewshire: Busby Road at Mearns Road, Clarkston
• Inverclyde: Eldon Street opposite Cove Road, Gourock
• North Ayrshire: The Cross at The Clydesdale Bank, Dalry
• North Lanarkshire: North Road at the Funeral Parlour, Bellshill
• Renfrewshire: Inchinnan Road opposite Renfrew Police Station
• South Ayrshire: Portland Street at Barassie Street, Troon
• South Lanarkshire: Almada Street opposite County Buildings, Hamilton
• West Dunbartonshire: Glasgow Street near Leven Street, Dumbarton