The Bee Network is trialling wayfinding technology to help visually impaired passengers access and navigate public transport spaces more easily.
The GoodMaps technology, which is accessed via a free app, is now available to use at several transport hubs in Greater Manchester as part of a three-month trial running from March to May.
Using information gathered by camera-based positioning, GoodMaps provides turn-by-turn directions to key destinations such as bus and tram platforms, accessible toilets, food and drink kiosks, emergency help points and more.
It has been designed to help people with visual impairments, hearing impairments and people who require step free access navigate busy public spaces that are not covered by GPS technology. It is also helpful for people travelling with luggage, bulky items and people whose first language isn’t English.
People can now try out GoodMaps in the following Bee Network locations:
Bolton Interchange and train station
Manchester Victoria Metrolink stop and train station
Manchester Piccadilly Metrolink stop and train station
Manchester Airport Metrolink stop and train station
Shudehill Interchange
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is working with its Disability Design Reference Group as part of the trial, as well as other groups representing older people and those with visual, hearing and mobility impairments.
The trial comes as part of the continued focus to make the Bee Network as inclusive and accessible as possible.
This work includes engagement with charities and passenger groups across the city-region to inform the ongoing transformation of the public transport and active travel network.
Cllr Tracey Rawlins, the Bee Network Committee’s Disability Advocate and Executive Member for Clean Air, Environment and Transport at Manchester City Council, said:
“Speaking as someone who lives with a visual impairment, I know first-hand the difficulties that can arise when trying to navigate an unfamiliar area, especially those as busy as a city-centre transport interchange.
“This is why it’s so important that as a city-region we are constantly exploring for new ways to make our public transport network as accessible as possible, whether that is for people with visual or hearing impairments, physical disabilities, or anything else that may make it harder to travel around.
“I’m pleased to be able to announce that the Bee Network is set to undertake a three-month trial of GoodMaps to explore its benefits, and I would very much encourage people to download it for free and see how it could improve their travelling experience throughout Greater Manchester.”
