Dial-a-timetable scheme trialled (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Dial-a-timetable scheme trialled

SWINDON bus users are to be among the first in the country to have access to timetable information via a text messaging system.

The scheme, run by bus information service Traveline, is being tested in Swindon and Devon and is due to be rolled out across Swindon next month.

Each bus stop is allocated a unique, seven-digit code. Users send a text message containing the code and receive a response within three seconds giving information on the next three departures from that spot.

The service works with the timetables of all the bus operators in the town including Thamesdown Transport and Stagecoach and is programmed to update with timetable changes.

Julie Williams, the project development manager for Traveline, said the scheme would give travellers more flexibility.

She said: "The information supplied by the service gives people a choice of whether to take the bus or the car.

"Our trials have already shown the systems works, but it tends to be used more in rural areas, or late at night rather than in town centres where buses might come along frequently."

David Burch, operations director for Thamesdown Transport said the system would be of great benefit to the town.

He said: "I think it will appeal to people who are used to using their mobile phone to get other information it will be quite natural for them to start getting their bus information the same way."

The Traveline telephone service is unique to the South West of England.

It has timetables for all 2,500 bus routes in the region along with 52,000 bus stops. Each inquiry will cost the same as a regular text message.

Coun Jemima Milton, (Con Wroughton and Chiseldon) the lead council member for transport welcomed the scheme.

"Anything that improves information for bus users is going to be an advantage because if people know when a bus is coming they will be more likely to use the bus rather than the car," she said.

In future, it is hoped real-time bus timetables can be supplied to users.

A real-time system would allow users to see delays and would give new estimated departure times.

aosborne@newswilts.co.uk