Talking Buses come to Manchester

Chris, guide dog Lottie and representative from Manchester Metroshuffle Bus Service standing in front of a bus in Manchester
Chris and Lottie in Manchester for new talking bus service

Chris joined transport bosses in Manchester to formally launch new equipment on the city’s free Metroshuttle service. Chris was delighted to support the launch observing  that the improvements are a fantastic way of ensuring the city’s transport network is more accessible.

The Department for Transport’s Green Bus Fund and Transport for Greater Manchester funded the 20 Optare low carbon buses that operate on the Manchester Metroshuttle routes. Transport for Greater Manchester paid for them to be retrofitted with brand new passenger information screens, making travel easier for passengers with visual or hearing impairments.

The 19-inch high-resolution screens provide automatic audio and visual announcements for passengers on aspects of the journey such as the route plan and the next stop, as well as places of interest and nearby businesses. The technology was fitted by contractors McKenna Brothers working with the charity Guide Dogs UK.

Chris was given a guided trip on one of the buses to experience the new technology for himself and he was delighted to congratulate Transport for Greater Manchester for the initiative which will mean people living with visual or hearing impairments can feel more confident in travelling independently.

Chris has spoken in Parliament on the importance of talking buses during debates on the Bus Services Bill.