The Go-Ahead Group, one of the UK’s largest public transport operators, has teamed up with global engineering and consulting firm Arup to create a blueprint which better integrates public transport with walking, cycling, micromobility and digital services.

The “Future Mobility Hubs” report presents a flexible framework for a network of interchanges that can be adapted to suit different cities, suburbs and rural areas across the UK.

Passengers waiting for a bus could benefit from solar powered lighting and heating, cycle storage and hire, charging points, community gardens and even co-working spaces.

According to the Go-Ahead Group, mobility hubs could unlock opportunities for low-carbon journeys by better integrating different forms of transport, creating an attractive alternative to cars. 

Services tailored to each location would enhance existing infrastructure such as bus stops, railways stations and park and ride facilities, with options ranging from cycle storage, e-bikes and EV charging to improved lighting, amenities and public realm.

The framework is published as local authorities work towards an October deadline for Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIPs) – which will be submitted to bid for a share of £3 billion of funding provided under Bus Back Better – the Government’s national bus service strategy. 

Mark Anderson, Go-Ahead’s Interim Customer and Commercial Director, said: “We’re setting out a vision of what bus stops and interchanges could look like in the future. 

“For the UK to meet its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050, we need millions of people to switch from cars to public transport. 

“We’ll only achieve that, as a country, if we think big, work closely with local authorities and come up with ideas to make travelling as attractive as possible.”