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First Launches Pioneering Door-to-Train Transport
Wednesday 12 December 2001
The UK's leading public transport operator, First, has launched a pioneering pilot scheme designed to provide truly integrated, door to door public transport.
The highly distinctive +BUS (PlusBus) scheme…
links homes and offices to intercity rail services provides door to station transport at near public transport rates will cover every major departure and arrival at the station is bookable on-train, at stations and from customers' homes and offices by phone provides security and convenience for a guaranteed flat fare is dedicated to rail customers, carrying up to six people covers an area up to 3 miles from the rail station, with short journey times Train-Taxi schemes are in use in other European cities, but it is believed the project is unique in the UK. Dr Mike Mitchell, First's Chief Operating Officer said, "Our investment marks another step towards providing exceptional integrated public transport. We recognise that journeys don't start or end at the station. Offering door to station transport as part of the First package is just one part of our vision to transform travel."
The +BUS scheme will be trialled for at least a year at Truro station in Cornwall, which handles around 650,000 journeys each year. The project adds to a number of integrated transport initiatives across First Great Western's network, and substantial investment through both its rail and bus divisions.
As part of its commitment to integrated transport, First Great Western publishes a "Guide to Bus Links" which provides times, maps and fares, including details of dedicated bus services to Heathrow and Bristol Airports and from Bristol Temple Meads to the City Centre. The company also won a Government "CycleMark" award for its work to improve cycle facilities at Bristol Temple Meads.
First has already introduced through-ticketing to hundreds of destinations using the rail and bus network, meaning customers can travel from London to Land's End on one ticket.
First Great Western's Integrated Transport Manager, Mark Prescott said, "Train-Taxis work very effectively in other European cities, and we're confident the +BUS will be equally as successful in Britain. The scheme will take the uncertainty out of journeys between the station and customer's homes. If it's booked, it'll be there, for a fare of just £2.20 anywhere in the urban area. That provides security and convenience for customers."
The +BUS vehicle carries the striking blue and magenta First livery, featured on First buses and a growing number of rail services. The scheme will be evaluated in Truro, and if successful could be rolled out to other stations served by First rail services in Wales, the North-West, Eastern and Southern England.