The integration of highway and public transport information

A key element in the promotion of use of different modes of transport is information. The provision of traveller information can help to ensure that individuals are aware of the travel options available to them and that travel decisions are based on informed judgement. Public transport in particular can appear a daunting prospect for the inexperienced user or for those making an unfamiliar journey. This is especially the case when a public transport journey involves multiple stages and different services or modes. Information can help to alert people to the fact that a particular journey by public transport is possible and also that it might be a viable alternative to travelling by car. The paper discusses the UK Government's 1998 Transport White Paper, which set a target for the availability of a national public transport (telephone) information service by the year 2000.