Technical support and funding to help facilitate multi-operator and multi-modal tap-on, tap-off ticketing in towns and cities across the UK is central to the government’s newly launched Integrated National Transport Strategy.
A partnership with Google Maps for live-tracking of buses and financial backing for the Mini-Switzerland integrated transport project in the Peak District are also among the 40 funded commitments made by the government as part of the “Better Connected” strategy.
Local leaders will be helped to implement tap-and-go payment systems that will enable passengers to seamlessly use different operators and transport modes in their areas with integrated pricing structures, the Department for Transport (DfT) says.
They will be given the tools to replicate the schemes already in place in areas such as Liverpool, London and Nottingham.
The scheme in Nottingham, for example, allows passengers to travel on both Nottingham City Transport buses and Nottingham Express Transit trams, using contactless and with one capped fare.
Nottingham and Derby’s Ride app also lets travellers plan journeys across other modes too, including car clubs, e-scooters and e-bikes.
The government has also given £6 million in funding to the Mini-Switzerland pilot in the Hope Valley in Derbyshire. That approach, featured in the latest issue of routeone, is designed to demonstrate how different modes of transport can be better integrated in rural areas.
Architects of the project, who are seeking funding from elsewhere, say it will need £1 million of capital expenditure at the outset, and a further £4 million of revenue spending in the first year, falling to £2 million per year for the subsequent four years.
A “breakthrough” partnership with Google will allow passengers right across the country to track their bus in real time through Google Maps, says DfT.
Live bus tracking has already been possible in London and some other areas in the country but now, powered by Bus Open Data Service, will be available on 80% of services outside the capital.
As part of the “Better Connected” National Integrated Transport Strategy, the government is to make £40 million available for local authorities to trial digital technologies to improve transport, reduce congestion and ease disruption.
Meanwhile, new Local Transport Plan guidance will provide “blueprints” for building joined-up transport.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says: “For too long, getting from A to B has been more complicated than it needs to be.
“People want journeys to be easy and reliable. They want to be able to get off a train and straight on to a bus without having to battle through a confusing system or buy separate tickets for each part of their journey.
“That’s why we’re giving local leaders the powers to build transport networks that are simpler, more accessible and better connected, improving everyday journeys and supporting growth in every corner of the country.”
Graham Vidler, Chief Executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, says: “Buses account for two thirds of public transport journeys and it’s encouraging to see them at the heart of the Government’s joined up transport strategy.
“The initiatives outlined today will help passengers to see when their bus is coming, to pay for their journeys conveniently and to swap seamlessly between different modes of transport.
“Bus and coach operators are already doing a great deal to improve integration – by offering tickets that can be used across different networks and by publishing combined, at-a-glance timetables. Our industry has been at the forefront of work with the West Midlands Combined Authority, and central government, to develop the technology needed to make this a reality nationwide.”
Sarah-Jayne Williams, Director of Geo Partnerships at Google Maps, adds: “We are committed to using data and technology to help people make more sustainable and informed travel choices every day.
“By integrating real-time bus information across England into Google Maps, we are giving millions of passengers the confidence to plan their journeys accurately.
“This partnership with the Department for Transport ensures that whether you are heading to work or visiting friends, you have accurate, live arrival times right at your fingertips. Making public transport easier to navigate is key to creating a more connected and sustainable future for everyone.”
