Milton Keynes hopes 5G enabled services will encourage public transport uptake

A city-wide transport app, which shares real-time information and books tickets regardless of the operator, is one step closer thanks to 5G plans, Milton Keynes Council has said. 

On the new app, passengers would be able to check how far away a vehicle is and how many seats are available in real time. Residents can also plan, book and pay for transport in a single transaction.

The app will harness the reliable local 5G service, which Milton Keynes Council is developing, and was recently used in a trial of 5G-powered remotely operated vehicles held at Stadium MK.

The council hopes better real time information will encourage more people into trying sustainable transport. It would eventually integrate the app into its existing GetaroundMK journey planning website and app. 

Milton Keynes Council, cabinet member for climate and sustainability, Cllr Jenny Wilson-Marklew, said, “The app will give passengers greater confidence. Uncertainty is one of the reasons people are put off using public transport, so we hope these kind of innovations will encourage more residents to give public transport a try.”