Hull City Council is making several changes to improve the experience of bus passengers at Hull Paragon Interchange, after listening to feedback from those who use services within the city.
The changes include new braille signage at each bay to assist visually impaired customers and will also soon involve the installation of laser door sensors to replace the current outdated inductive loop detectors to maintain the efficiency and safety of the city’s public transport infrastructure.
The braille signage has been installed following discussions with bus passengers, user groups, transport operators and voluntary and community sector organisations, through the council’s Equalities Group, while a contract has also been awarded to Doors and Repair Services (Yorkshire) Ltd to undertake the work to install the new sensors at 30 bays in the interchange.
Tracy Atkinson, training officer at Sight Support Hull, said: “We were pleased to be consulted on accessibility matters at the interchange and are encouraged to see that the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, including those with visual impairments, have been recognised and thoughtfully addressed. This is a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all.”
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways at Hull City Council, said: “By listening to feedback from our residents, we are able to make changes that greatly improve the experience of travelling by bus and that help people make more sustainable travel choices.
“Through our equalities group, we, as a council, alongside our partners, will continue to take action to enhance bus travel in the city, including for our residents with additional needs.
“Modernising infrastructure is important for the efficient operation of the city’s public transport and that is why we are also investing in new laser door sensors.
“By ensuring that the departure doors operate reliably, we enhance the overall customer experience for bus passengers, encouraging more people to choose public transport over private cars. This aligns with our commitment to providing excellent customer service and promoting sustainable transportation options.”
In addition to the changes at Hull Paragon Interchange, the council has also approved a contract extension until March 2026 with Vix Technology UK Limited for the continuation of real-time passenger information to 36 bus stops around the city.
Councillor Ieronimo added: “Real-time updates at bus shelters help our residents plan their journeys better and reduce waiting times. By extending this important maintenance contract, the council is ensuring the continuity of a service that many of our residents depend on.”
