FREE wifi on city buses could encourage more travellers to pick public transport over cars and bikes, it is hoped.

As reported in Tuesday’s Oxford Mail, Oxford City Council has received Government funding to introduce wifi to Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach services.

Hugh Jaeger, chairman of the Oxford Bus Users group, said the news almost all buses could soon have the free internet facility will encourage more residents to travel by bus.

He added: “We think it’s a further step in the right direction.

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“I think this will be the next big shift to make buses that are much more attractive to people. I think it’s going to be massive.

“We are pushing an open door encouraging travellers of all ages, especially the younger generation, to travel more by bus and to treat the bus as their first preference.”

It is expected the two bus companies’ city services will be equipped with wifi by the end of November.

Free wifi is already available on the Oxford Bus Company’s city X3/X13/13 Heartbeat services between Abingdon and Oxford, Abingdon and the John Radcliffe Hospital, and Oxford and the John Radcliffe.

Funding secured will also enable wifi hotspots to be introduced in free-to-enter public buildings, including libraries and museums.

City Council leader Bob Price said: “The city council is building a world class city for its residents and for the nearly 10 million visitors that we receive each year.

“Wifi access is a crucial element in providing information and guidance to visitors, as well as facilitating business and social communications.”


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