Be more like Brighton & Hove Buses, says Transport Minister

Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, is encouraging operators to follow the lead of Brighton & Hove Buses and improve accessibility on their bus services. Simon made the comments as he marks the International Day of People with Disabilities.

During a visit to Brighton, the Minister learned about specially designed buses centred around being as accessible as possible. This includes displaying information for those with hearing and sight impairments and increased space for wheelchairs.

As part of the visit, the Minister met with a number of disabled passengers who rely on these services, hearing about how they directly contributed to the design and feel more confident when travelling on these buses.

“We want to build a transport system that works for everyone, and Brighton and Hove are leading the way in making this a reality for bus passengers” – Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood

Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “We want to build a transport system that works for everyone, and Brighton and Hove are leading the way in making this a reality for bus passengers.

“Speaking with local disabled people it was clear how much they valued these services and we want operators across the country to learn from this leading approach – enabling everyone to travel with confidence.”

Brighton & Hove Buses partnered with the Sight Loss Councils when developing training to ensure blind and partially sighted passengers would be supported. DfT says this training, which is endorsed by the Confederation of Passenger Transport and the DVSA, is now seen as the industry gold standard and is on offer to all bus operators across the country.

“Listening and learning from the lived experience of disabled people including co-designing our polices, initiatives and new vehicles helps to ensure a more inclusive journey for all” – Ed Wills, Managing Director for Brighton & Hove Buses and Metrobus

Ed Wills, Managing Director for Brighton & Hove Buses and Metrobus, said: “We are the leading operator for customer journeys per head of population outside of London so accessible travel is vital for connecting our community.

“Listening and learning from the lived experience of disabled people including co-designing our polices, initiatives and new vehicles helps to ensure a more inclusive journey for all.

“This is an important part of our ongoing partnership working with Brighton & Hove City Council and local community groups to improve our network for all customers.”

This visit follows the Government announcing £1 billion of bus funding, £9.2 million specifically for Brighton and Hove City Council.