Making Public Transport accessible and convenient Introduction Breaking down the barriers to use of public transport is vital to making public transport a viable alternative to the private car. One obvious barrier, particularly for the occasional users of public transport, is the lack of available information. Bus routes and train timetables may appear to some to be an impossible obstacle when planning a journey, so as to defeat the would-be passenger from the start.
Interchanges are often problematic for passengers unfamiliar with the journey.
Through-ticketing, timetabling that avoids lengthy waiting, and good signage can assist in providing a seamless journey. Location of bus stops where people can reach them, and provision of services at times when people want them, can make the difference between someone going out at all, and if they do, opting to travel by bus. Research reveals that fear for personal security is a further barrier to use of public transport, especially by women and especially after dark. There is now considerable established good practice in designing to reduce fear and crime, and provide reassurance. It is also important to work with other relevant agencies in the area to make improvements to the wider environment, so as to address the need to make the whole journey a secure one.