Hi-tech bus information pilot launches in Blackburn

Bus users in Blackburn can now receive up-to-the minute information on the whereabouts of their buses following the launch of a pilot project by Blackburn with Darwen Council and bus operator Transdev Lanashire United.

The system, which runs on solar power and utilises satellite technology, gives out real time information on the 152 service at various bus stops on Preston Old Road from The Crescent (towards Blackburn) to Boulevard stand J (towards Burnley.)

As part of its redevelopment The Mall will also display the real time bus information, with the system likely to be extended to other bus services in the future.

Molly Postlethwaite, a bus user from Cherry Tree, said: "It's been smashing so far. It's great to be kept informed and get more up-to-date information on how far away your bus is. It's better than reading the normal timetable. It speaks to you as well which is good for people who don't have good eye sight."

Councillor Alan Cottam, executive member of regeneration, said: "It's early days but the system offers people peace of mind by giving them an exact idea of when their bus will arrive. It's powered by a solar cell so it cuts down on the carbon footprint. In the future, we're also hoping to combine the solar cell with the shelter so the screen can be under cover. In the future there's also potential to display other public information on the screens as well."

You can access the system by visiting http://lancashire.acislive.com and typing in service 152.