Helping North Somerset Achieve Sustainable, Accessible Bus Services
Idox Partners with Papercast to Enhance Bus Service Infrastructure in North Somerset.
Bus services are essential gateways to greener, more connected communities – and we’re proud to play a part in improving them. A new collaboration between Idox and Papercast is helping to transform North Somerset’s bus service infrastructure. This initiative is part of the Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, which is revamping over 130 bus stops across the region. As part of this effort, we’ve introduced more than 160 solar-powered, energy-efficient displays to enhance the Plan’s sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
A Unified Effort for a Better Future
One of the central aims of Family Hubs is to streamline access to family services, making it easier for parents to find the right support at the right time. A comprehensive digital directory acts as a single access point, bringing together vital services—from maternity and early years support to childcare, education, and community groups. By offering a centralised, easy-to-navigate resource, councils can ensure families receive the guidance they need without unnecessary complexity or delays.
This project is part of a larger collaborative effort involving North Somerset Council, the West of England Combined Authority, and First Bus. Together, we are working to create a bus service that is comfortable, convenient, safe, and accessible for all. Idox’s role in this project is to bring innovative, smart transport technologies to the wider North Somerset area.
Idox’s intelligent transport systems provide real-time bus arrival predictions, displayed on innovative e-paper signage panels designed by Papercast. These solar-powered displays function similarly to e-readers, conserving energy by going into low-power mode when not in use. By using solar power, these displays can operate completely wirelessly and autonomously, further contributing to the sustainability of the initiative.
Greener Services, More Connected Communities
Buses are one of the most eco-friendly modes of transport, with significantly lower emissions than cars and vans. Our solar-powered technology is designed to be energy-efficient, reducing the carbon footprint of the Bus Service Improvement Plan.
This project also focuses on enhancing the accessibility and comfort of the district’s bus services. New, spacious shelters allow easier access for wheelchair users and mobility scooters, while improved signage helps visually impaired passengers. These upgrades make waiting for and boarding buses more user-friendly, which we hope will encourage greater use of public transport.
With comfort and convenience at the forefront, we aim to make buses a more attractive option for residents, aligning with national government goals to make public transport a more sustainable and community-driven choice. North Somerset’s efforts could set a benchmark for bus service upgrades across the UK.
Papercast’s Perspective
Cameron Maconie, Head of Business Development of Papercast, shared their enthusiasm about the project:
We’re excited to see how our solar-powered e-paper technology is playing a key role in enhancing the passenger experience in North Somerset. By providing real-time bus arrival information in a sustainable, cost-effective manner, we’re helping to create a transportation system that is not only more efficient but also aligned with the future of eco-conscious travel. This collaboration with Idox and North Somerset Council is a great example of how technology can transform public transport for the better.
A Message from Councillor Hannah Young
Councillor Hannah Young, Executive Member for Highways and Transport at North Somerset Council, highlights the multiple benefits of the project:
“The new bus stops and shelters, equipped with Idox’s solar-powered real-time passenger information solution, will significantly improve the passenger experience. Features like real-time updates on bus arrivals, brighter lighting, and improved seating will ensure passengers have access to the most up-to-date information. Additionally, the solar-powered technology reduces energy costs, providing a more sustainable and cost-efficient solution. Our aim is to make bus travel more accessible, convenient, and appealing, encouraging more residents to opt for sustainable public transport.”
Towards a Revitalised Future for Buses and Passengers
On 20th March, the West of England unveiled its first electrified bus depot. We were on hand at a promotional event hosted by First Bus to explore sustainable infrastructure developments across North Somerset. We shared our expertise and learned from public sector leaders, furthering our commitment to driving sustainable transportation solutions.
While we may not be able to solve all the challenges facing public transport in North Somerset, we are proud to contribute by introducing cost-effective, energy-saving technologies to the region’s revitalised bus infrastructure.
