Transport for Wales (TfW) will utilise the Optibus platform to assist in delivery of plans to franchise the country’s buses by accurately modelling a bus network “that maximises sustainability and social impact.”
Using the software, TfW will work with all 22 Welsh unitary authorities and the country’s bus operators to design a network “to better serve Wales’ residents and the more than 52 million passengers who travel on buses in Wales each year,” a joint statement says.
TfW Development of Mid, North and Rural Wales Director Lee Robinson adds that the Optibus platform will enable TfW “to accurately model the delivery of the entire network in a single tool.” Mr Robinson says that Optibus will also “play a key role in helping us to build a reliable, efficient and sustainable bus network that serves passengers across Wales.”
He continues: “The software’s ability to digitise the network and timetables quickly and test scenarios that result in the most effective operational decisions has been a revelation.”
Optibus CEO and Co-Founded Amos Haggiag notes that the supplier is pleased to have been chosen as the bus planning and scheduling software provider for TfW, “and to take part in this historical chapter for advancing public transport in Wales.”
The Welsh Government published its white paper on bus franchising in 2022. It calls for collaboration between the Welsh Government, TfW and local authorities to design services and networks that “best meet people’s and communities’ needs within the funding available.” A national centre for excellence for franchise contracting through TfW is also part of the plans.
