Award-winning technology puts an end to bus stop bingo

The Bridge in Dartford has won a commendation for partnership working in the design, planning and implementation of Fastrack, a cutting edge public transport system that means that residents on the development will never have to buy a ticket or wait for a bus again. The scheme will be showcased at the 57th Annual UITP (International Union of Public Transport) Conference and Exhibition in Helsinki (22nd May 2007) in recognition of the success of this public/private partnership in developing public transport at the Bridge.

George Wimpey Homes in collaboration with ACIS, ProLogis, Dartford Borough Council, has established a system whereby each property is installed with a console displaying real time information about Fastrack and local buses and trains. The console is updated on the position of the buses and trains by satellite so it can accurately predict their arrival times. Residents of The Bridge can also receive live real time updates to their cell phones, home or office displays and PCs via SMS alerts and emails so that they don’t miss their ride.

Fastrack Route A, a new, purpose built transit system with its own dedicated route, will be free to residents. It will quickly and easily connect The Bridge with Dartford town centre and rail stations at both Dartford and Greenhithe as well as with Bluewater shopping centre. Easy connections can be made on to Ebbsfleet International station, and local facilities and amenities, such as Darent Valley Hospital and Princes Park stadium by changing to the Fastrack Route B service. Both Fastrack services are operated by Arriva.

Designer Wayne Hemmingway comments: “This commendation is solid recognition of a creative collaboration that will provide real benefits for residents. In practice, the integrated system will mean that people get an extra five minutes in bed and don’t have to scrabble around for change for their fare. What we are doing at The Bridge is leading the way for other developments by connecting with what people want.”

David Martin, Chief Executive of Arriva, notes: "This award shows how groundbreaking the Fastrack project is and how much can be achieved when everyone works in partnership. It demonstrates that people are prepared to choose public transport instead of the car when they are given a viable alternative."


Properties in phase one of The Bridge are currently for sale through George Wimpey Homes. Prices range from £165,000 for a one-bedroom flat to £350,000 for a four-bedroom house.

For more information about The Bridge or buying property, visit thebridgedartford.co.uk.