A NEW strategy to improve bus information could help make services more accessible and encourage people out of their cars and into public transport.

Wiltshire County Council is working with bus operators to improve the way bus information is made available.

Both the county council and bus operators already provide extensive information on bus services, and the new strategy will build on existing successful arrangements.

The strategy clearly sets out the roles of the county council and bus operators to develop closer working.

Extensive consultation was carried out through a specialist consultant with a wide variety of organisations and members of the public.

A focus group was drawn from the People's Voice panel, and stakeholder groups such as parish and district councils and bus user groups. Environmental organisations were also consulted. The new strategy has now been officially adopted as county policy.

Fleur de Rhe-Philipe, Wiltshire County Council's cabinet member for the environment, said: "The strategy provides a framework for continuing to improve the way bus information is provided in Wiltshire, by both the county council and bus operators.

"It will help us to meet some of the objectives set out in the Local Transport Plan for Wiltshire, such as making bus services more accessible and encouraging use of public transport."

Copies of the new strategy can be obtained by phoning (01225) 713446, or by e-mailing buses@wiltshire.gov.uk