Stagecoach launches new app service to help Portsmouth bus passengers during lockdown

The ‘busy bus’ will use data and artificial intelligence to show which buses are quieter and to enable social distancing on services.

Every bus on the live map will be colour coded, with quieter buses showing a green icon, through to ‘quite busy’ buses which are amber, and ‘very busy’ buses which are dark amber.

Passengers are also able to see where their bus is on the map and the estimated time of arrival.

The existing app is being rolled out to iOS and Android users, and it is planned to be fully in place by June 18 on the app store and Google Play.

Stagecoach has already introduced new changes to services in Portsmouth to help maintain social distancing.

All buses are cleaned daily with an anti-viral sanitiser and contactless payment is available on all services.

The government has already said anyone travelling on public transport in England from June 15 must wear a face covering.

Carla Stockton-Jones, interim managing director UK for Stagecoach, said: ‘We are pleased to be welcoming more people back onto our buses as things start to open up around the country.

‘We have already put a range of extra measures in place to make sure our customers feel confident in using our services, including strict cleaning regimes and social distancing measures, which we know are the biggest priorities for travellers.

‘The launch of our new busy bus indicator is an extra step to give people an easy, at a glance guide on the best times to travel and to plan their journeys to avoid busier times.

‘Buses continue to play a vital role in connecting people with work and leisure facilities. At a time when people across the country are starting to be reunited with friends and family, this investment in new technology will help to ensure that people can be completely prepared and confident in using our services.’

First Bus has already announced a similar service on its app to help customers in the Portsmouth area.

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