Midlands stations get real-time information

Real-time information systems and visual display screens are to be installed at all West Midlands rail stations to encourage use of public transport by people with sight or hearing difficulties.

Centro, the local transport executive responsible for developing public transport in the area, has been awarded funding to begin installation at 25 train stations. It has also launched the procurement process to design, supply, install and maintain a system at the remaining 35 stations, at a cost of £2.4m.

‘A public address system will help visually impaired passengers, while visual displays will make the hearing impaired more confident when using the trains,’ a Centro spokeswoman told Computing.

Information is sent from trains and signalling systems to Centro’s local information control centre, and then transmitted via a wide area network using a combination of wireless and hard-wired communication.

The upgraded information screens, automatic public address systems and induction loops will be installed in the first 25 stations this year. Work on the remaining 35 stations will begin in April 2007 and be completed by 2007/08.

Butler Group senior analyst Mark Blowers says increased connectivity to the internet means real-time information is now vital for good customer service.

‘The technology has developed to the point where it is now ubiquitous and available at most train operators,’ he said.

‘Real-time information also reduces the queues at information desks and phone lines, so there is a valid cost efficiency benefit.’

What do you think? Email us at feedback@computing.co.uk

Further reading

GNER on track for full WiFi access

Rail firm to use smart tickets

Better service at Wimbledon