Demand Responsive Transport Booking System

Description

The project is based upon the delivery of an improved and more easily accessible Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) service, which will link directly with existing local services at key interchanges. This should improve facilities at interchange points to include shelters, lighting, and Real Time Passenger Information screens (RTPI), where possible. This operational area is large, with a rurally dispersed population and difficult terrain within the Peak District National Park (PDNP). Conventional buses cannot easily operate or even access much of the minor road network. The existing local service network, both commercial and tendered, is structured around linking the main towns with villages along each route. It is a challenge to deliver timetabled services that provide for resident's needs, set against not having services with too many variations or lengthy diversions which can make it less attractive to use. Balancing passenger numbers against the cost of operating bus services, which meet the needs of residents without access to transport, is a challenge. Staffordshire County Council have been successful in securing funding from the Department for Transport 'Rural Mobility Fund' (RMF) for an expanded demand responsive bus (DRT) service in the Staffordshire Moorlands area. Full details of the service proposals can be seen on our website at Staffordshire Moorlands - Rural Mobility Fund - Staffordshire County Council. It is strongly recommended that bidders read the RMF submission alongside this tender before bidding. https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Transport/transportplanning/Funding-bids/Staffordshire-Moorlands-Demand-Responsive-Transport-DRT.aspx The service will involve the operation of three brand new accessible minibuses across the area with interchange to core local bus services, to facilitate longer distance journeys and maximise the efficiency of the DRT. This procurement is for Staffordshire County Council to procure a technology partner to deliver a new scheduling and booking service (booking platform) including an 'App' for journey bookings and payments. The journey scheduling will ensure that journey capacity is maximised, and connections will be guaranteed by linking to the tracking technology on the local bus services. A single ticketing structure will be introduced across the DRT and local bus service journeys. To apply contact Sharon.bowers@staffordshire.gov.uk