Real Time Information

Current Position

The core system, comprising the radio network, communications infrastructure, servers, depot and office facilities is in place. The vast majority of buses have now been equipped and display panels erected at key locations.

The displays no longer show 'Under test' and the system is operational (except on occasion when a non-equipped bus is in service).

Expenditure

Once complete, the total investment by Durham County Council will be up to £3.0 million, as part of the regional project costing over £12 million.

Reasons for Doing the Scheme

In addition to providing real-time information for passengers, the project will improve the reliability of bus services through better fleet management and improved operation as a result bus priority measures.

Brief Description of the Scheme

The real time system provides information for passengers through the satellite positioning of buses. This information is relayed via a radio network to a central server which in turn calculates the position of the bus relative to the scheduled timetable and this can then be used to predict the time of arrival at any location on route. Bus arrival information is via on-street displays, SMS messaging, internet access and Traveline. In addition to providing passenger information, the system also allows the bus operators to actively manage the running of their fleet and communicate with vehicles by radio.

The project is being implemented jointly between local authorities and bus operators in the region. The system will cover County Durham, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and Tees Valley, making it the largest system (geographically) in the UK.