To be published in the Bournemouth Rock Feb 16
(Oyster-pass twin on the cards for University)
The frantic scramble for loose change may be a thing of the past for new students coming to Bournemouth University.
A new ‘Smart card’ system would allow students unlimited access to the university buses throughout the academic year if given the go ahead.
The potential deal that is still in being negotiated with university travel provider Wilts and Dorset, could be in place ready for September’s influx of new students this year.
Suggestions ideas for the card include a combined fee for halls of residence and smart card for first years, alongside a separate termly pass or a pay as you go option for those living in privately rented accommodation.
The passes are akin to the Transport for London’s Oyster card that allows people to travel using the bus, Tube, tram, DLR and London over-ground services.
Student President Toby Horner has high hopes for the scheme despite plans being in their infancy: “I would hope that the new system is in place ready for the new academic year.
“Buses have been one of those things that have continually cropped up because so many students are using the buses day-in day-out.
He added: “Based on the student feedback the university is very aware that the current provision for the buses aren’t quite up to scratch with what the students are expecting.
The passes are akin to the Transport for London’s Oyster card, which allows people to travel using the bus, Tube, tram, DLR and London over-ground services.
But dissimilarly to the London scheme owners of the Bournemouth Smart card will be presently confined to using buses.
Wilts and Dorset, who provide internal university bus services U1, U2, U3 and U4, recently unveiled their ‘Key’ system to the public earlier this January.
Currently they offer their service in the Bournemouth, Poole and its surrounding areas on 10-day, 20-day, 30-day and 90-day travel passes
Commercial manager for Wilts and Dorset, Leon Wellman said the company are still trying to improve the system: “We are still fine tuning this technology and will hope to come out with an effective pay-as-you-go system suited for this region.”
With all Wilts and Dorset buses fitted with the pass readers that are currently used for concessionary passes, the university hopes it will mean shorter queuing times for students and the public alike.
Pricing for a potential agreement will be discussed next month during a meeting between the Student Union representatives, Bournemouth University and Wilts and Dorset.
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