Martin Howell
Director, Transport Markets, Worldline UK & Ireland
Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is driving the push towards a greener public transport system, presenting an opportunity to significantly reduce the use of private cars in our cities.
Local authorities, such as Solent and the West of England Combined Authority, are actively looking into MaaS solutions to help make public transport a more streamlined end-to-end experience. Yet, there are still many ways we could be harnessing data more effectively.
MaaS to tackle public transport challenges
A significant challenge is integrating complex transport modes, which have historically operated in isolation. However, for public transport to become the preferred mobility option, it first needs a connected ecosystem supported by smart, live data analysis.
A nationwide transport network akin to
London’s could significantly reduce
poverty by improving access to jobs.
An open data approach can empower analysts, operators and authorities to transform raw data into actionable intelligence about how passengers behave and how services could be performing. London has set the standard for what integrated transport should look like. What’s stopping us from replicating the ‘London experience’ in other UK cities and regions?
A nationwide transport network akin to London’s could significantly reduce poverty by improving access to jobs and stimulating economic growth through better connectivity. Regional control and funding could elevate 1.5 million people out of poverty by making employment more accessible and fostering regional economic development.
Growth through inclusive mobility
For sustainable investment in data-driven public transport, a commitment to cultivating lifelong public transport users is essential. Offering free travel to under-18s would be a good place to start — it would facilitate access to education and jobs while fostering environmental stewardship. It would ensure inclusivity, ingraining public transport as a natural part of life for future generations.
This vision for an inclusive, data-led public transport system demands a paradigm shift, with regional authorities taking the lead over central government. Despite the challenges, the long-term benefits promise a transformative impact, creating a system that works for everyone in the country.