NEXT stop announcements are now live on Stagecoach buses in Dunfermline and West Fife.

The audible and visual cues aim to improve accessibility and travel confidence for disabled users.

They will also provide clear route and stop information on the bus.

Douglas Robertson, managing director at Stagecoach East Scotland, said: “On-board announcements can provide so much clarity on the route the bus takes and the bus stops served. 

"It encourages independence for disabled users and supports access to public transport and community facilities.

“We’ve been working hard to ensure our vehicles comply with the new legislation."

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The Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations 2000 (PSVAR) guidelines require that all vehicles registered after October 2019 must have on board passenger announcements by October 1, 2024.

There is a deadline of October 2026 for all remaining vehicles.

The technology used on the buses works in tandem with the destination screen at the front of the vehicle.

Drivers can even override the system when they need to follow a diversion so the announcements remain accurate.

Mr Robertson added: “The same GPS tracking on all our vehicles, powers the live bus times on our website and app. Now, not only can customers track our buses in real time, they can track progress on board too - visually via the Stagecoach Bus app, but also via the on-board announcements too.

“This development will greatly increase confidence to travel and help customers know when to get off the bus.”

All Stagecoach buses used on the electric city networks within Dunfermline now have the on-board announcements.