Title

COST 349: Accessibility of coaches and long distance buses for people with reduced mobility

Document Type

Conference Paper

Publication Date

2007

Subject Area

Infrastructure - Facilities, Location - Europe, Mobility - Wheelchair, Modes of Transport - Bus, Transport accessibility - Access to Information

Abstract

The acronym COST stands for Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical research and is the oldest and widest European intergovernmental network for cooperation in research. COST 349 was a four year study to examine ways of improving access to coaches and long distance buses. The findings are being used to inform the policy debate on how to improve access to public transport. The project included representatives from vehicle manufacturers, operators, equipment suppliers, groups representing disabled passengers and legislators. Working groups examined vehicle construction issues, the design of infrastructure, provision of information, staff training and economic factors. The paper will cover the main recommendations under each of these headings, and will identify areas where there is scope for rapid progress. Staff training is an example where improvements can be made quickly and at relatively low cost. Significant changes to vehicle fleets and the infrastructure of stops and coach stations are of necessity longer term goals, and incur significant capital costs. There is scope for some improvement to infrastructure as part of a routine maintenance programme. Key issues such as provision of information in accessible formats will also be addressed.