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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Neil Pooran

Edinburgh's bus stop tracking boards set to be replaced after 14 years

Edinburgh's ageing collection of arrival boards at bus stops around the city is set to be replaced with a much newer system.

The city council are considering upgrading the Bustracker system which lets passengers and staff know when the next bus is arriving.

It would mean new, colour screens replacing the current digital boards, with the new signs also showing tram, train and flight information.

The existing Bustracker, first introduced 14 years ago, has "partially failed" and is now too old to repair.

Upgrading to the new system will cost £2.9m but reductions in maintenance costs are expected to pay for this.

The colour screens could display adverts but they are expected to be more accurate than the existing system.

If approved, the new signs are expected to be rolled out next year as part of a five-year contract to 21st Century Solutions.

A report says a French company currently provides the bus tracking system, while another firm handles the Content Management System (CMS).

It said: "Both systems were first installed more than 14 years ago. The bus station system has now partially failed and due to its age cannot be repaired or maintained.

"In a sector where technology has advanced significantly, both systems are outdated and new products exist that can provide more efficient and effective services at lower maintenance costs."

The contract will replace an old CMS before the new signs are introduced across the city.

Lothian Buses have said the new system will be compatible with their vehicles.

Councillors will consider approving the contact at a meeting of the full council on Thursday. 

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