TRAVELLERS will be able to check how busy their buses are with a new tool launched by Stagecoach.

The "busy bus" indicator is meant to help customers plan their journeys as lockdown lifting sees services increase across the borough.

Implemented by Britain's biggest bus operator, the new feature will use extensive data and artificial intelligence to colour code services.

Each vehicle in the live map on the Stagecoach app will be coloured, with quieter buses showing as green, for "not too busy", amber for "quite busy", and dark amber for "very busy".

Carla Stockton-Jones, interim managing director UK for Stagecoach, said: “We are pleased to be welcoming more people back onto our buses as things start to open up around the country.

“We have already put a range of extra measures in place to make sure our customers feel confident in using our services, including strict cleaning regimes and social distancing measures, the biggest priorities for travellers.

"The launch of our new busy bus indicator is an extra step to give people an easy guide to plan their journeys to avoid busier times.

“Buses continue to play a vital role in connecting people with work and leisure facilities. At a time when people across the country are starting to be reunited with friends and family, this investment in new technology will help to ensure that people can be completely prepared and confident in using our services.”

The app is now being rolled out to iOS and android users and is planned to be fully in place by 18 June via the app store and Google Play platforms.

It forms part of a detailed package of safety measures in place to help people travel in confidence as the economy and daily life reopens.

Strict cleaning regimes continue for all buses, which includes at least a daily clean of all buses with an anti-viral sanitiser. Contactless payment is also available on all buses.

Visit stagecoachbus.com/coronavirus for more information.