Transport Marketing Initiative
Information

For a period of five years, a number of projects have been developed linked with a local transport marketing initiative created by myself at the community level to improve awareness and confidence of the local bus network in Redditch Town. 


This project originally called the Connection Bus Marketing Initiative then renamed Movement Transport Initiative was aimed to improve marketing and information of a local bus network in a Midlands town. The aim is to make transport information more accessible. Before the initiative started, the local passenger information was patchy with the limited level of printed information & marketing materials making certain parts of the bus network was invisible. This has to lead to low passenger confidence and the area faces instability due to services being constantly being cut or withdrawn. An initial trial was developed by transferring information to printed leaflets. This got certain support from local MP's, local and county councillors. Also, local bus operators such as Diamond and First Midlands and local community organisations supported the initiative. The initiative is appreciated by local people through various assistance from various people and organisations the attempt is to get the authority to endorse and support the initiative. 


The response was very positive which lead to a special steering group with my concept and the Redditch Community Forum and regular contact with Worcestershire County Council's Passenger Transport Group. The plan was to now develop a family of Information and promotional materials and to fill the gap of printed materials which otherwise would not be created.

With support and assistance of the Redditch Community Forum and Worcestershire County Council, a first project was developed. This is the all bus operator map and guides to Alexandra Hospital the town's main Accident & Emergency Hospital. This the nearest A&E Hospital for the Northern Half of Worcestershire. Because it is essential for bus users from the surrounding areas such as Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Wythall, able to access the hospital with confidence. Also the hospital from bus passengers for the neighbouring county of Warwickshire from places like Alcester, Bidford and Studley.


Other projects were developed including a leisure guide by bus to a recreation park & countryside centre and promoting a special bus service to a nation playday event. Also as part of a funded project from Worcestershire to encourage local residents to be aware of the transport options other than a car, a special information guide was developed to make information easier on the various contact process in related comments, complaints & suggestions in the Redditch area.