The illuminated display sign is the result of a partnership between Lancaster University, Lancaster City Council and United Utilities.

Following the removal of the previous departure boards by Lancashire County Council, Lancaster City Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee investigated the issue and initiated talks with Lancaster University and Stagecoach to look at options for replacement signage.

Lancaster University Information Systems Services (ISS) had already developed a similar solution for the university underpass and used their know-how to design a similar system for Lancaster Bus Station.

After being contacted by Lancaster MP Eric Ollerenshaw, water company United Utilities agreed to fund the project as a thank you to the local community for putting up with major road works.

The new system uses the university’s iLancaster mobile phone platform and a modern LCD screen to display bus departures.

 “It’s been fantastic to be able to give something back to the community in this way,” said Chris Dixon, Lancaster University's Head of Service Delivery and Operations.

 “Projects like this demonstrate what the university is about. Innovating and then taking that innovation and learning to the wider community. Now not only users travelling to the university, but the public can benefit and, once again, have access to a much needed service.”

Mr Ollerenshaw said:   “I was delighted to help facilitate the re-introduction of an electronic bus service timetable for our city. This will make a real difference to people getting around Lancaster and many thanks to United Utilities for helping Lancaster City Council make this happen”

Chairman of the City Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee Coun David Kerr said: “This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved by being able to tap into the technical expertise on offer at Lancaster University, as well as the support from United Utilities.”

United Utilities Project Manager for Lancaster Dawn Harrington said:  “We’re doing a lot of work around Lancaster to improve our wastewater network and clean up the River Lune. It’s meant a lot of upheaval at the bus station because major work needed to be done. I’m really pleased we can reward passengers for their infinite patience by funding this sign.”

• Bus use among Lancaster University students is up by more than a quarter
• More than two thirds of students living off campus now commute to university by bus
• Bus use amongst University staff has increased by 17 per cent to just under a quarter of all staff