Operational requirements

This guidance provides information about the operational requirements of a bus stop. It considers how to future proof a bus stop for potential growth, provides a cross-reference for information about the requirements of bus drivers and physical facilities then touches on the importance of bus driver training.

Future proofing for potential growth

Consider how to future proof bus stops to allow for the growth that could occur if there is new development near the bus stop, the bus stop becomes more accessible, or the bus service becomes a more attractive mode of transport.

Future growth at a bus stop could result in the need to:

• increase bus stop capacity if bus frequency is increased
• provide additional facilities such as a new or larger shelter, street or shelter lighting, or cycle parking
• allow for higher capacity buses such as double-decker or articulated buses
• integrate buses with other travel modes such as by providing more manoeuvring space for bus with bike racks mounted.

Bus driver and physical facility requirements

For information about the considerations that should be given to bus drivers and the facilities they may require for operational and staff needs, see Bus layover and driver facilities.

PTDG: Bus layover and driver facilities

Bus driver training

It is important to provide practical route-specific training for bus drivers so they can familiarise themselves with their routes and bus infrastructure. For example, if routes include bus lanes shared with cyclists, driver training should highlight that cyclists are likely to pass busses at bus stops so drivers must take particular care when departing bus stops into shared lanes.

Bus drivers should be made aware of new bus stops or new vehicle types, so they understand the specific-site features and any constraints.