DCA behind the wheel in London bus project

DCA Design International is working for London Transport Buses on designing the capital’s next generation of buses. A full-size, double-deck rig is being built to test the ideas generated.

LTB is reviewing its long-term strategy for buses by determining what bus riders want from vehicles and ticketing systems. Transport companies MVA and Steer Davies Gleave are working on ticketing aspects of the review.

DCA is to research the form and layout of future buses, bearing in mind existing and anticipated European rules. It has subcontracted Sian Thornthwaite Consultants to look at the legislative aspects.

Solari Manoy Consultants has been hired to work on ergonomic issues. The nature and delivery of information to passengers is also part of the project.

DCA, appointed after a credentials pitch, is working full-time on the project, and expects to present initial recommendations by the end of March, says DCA director Michael Groves.

Although all routes are franchised in London, LTB will use the research to specify what types of bus any operators and potential operators will have to run to retain or win the franchises.

Groves says features being considered include improved access for the disabled, and passenger-operated ticketing systems based both on vehicles and at stops.

Some specifications suggested by DCA and its fellow consultants may well be seen on the capital’s bus routes as early as next year, says Groves. The recommendations will feed through to other UK regions as vehicle manufacturers build the new buses.