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Super Stops Redefine Bus Travel in Portsmouth | LBBOnline

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 9:31 GMT by lbbonline
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Portsmouth Launches “Super Stops” – A Game‑Changer for Bus Travel

In a bold move that could set a new standard for public transport across the UK, Portsmouth has become the first city in the south of England to roll out the Department for Transport’s highly‑anticipated “Super Stop” scheme. The initiative, unveiled by the Portsmouth City Council in partnership with local bus operators and the UK government, promises to dramatically improve the bus‑boarding experience for thousands of commuters, tourists and residents alike.

What Are Super Stops?

The concept of a “Super Stop” is part of a national effort to modernise bus infrastructure and make bus travel more attractive, accessible and efficient. Unlike the cramped, often poorly lit bus stops that dot many UK cities, a Super Stop is a purpose‑built hub that incorporates a range of features:

• Large, clear digital displays that show real‑time arrivals, route maps and service alerts.
• Premium shelters made from durable, weather‑proof materials, with ample seating, good visibility and integrated lighting for safety.
• Accessibility features including tactile paving, audible announcements, step‑free access, and dedicated wheelchair bays.
• Security upgrades such as CCTV, emergency call points and better lighting.
• Amenities like free Wi‑Fi, charging ports, and, in some cases, small cafés or kiosks that provide refreshments or quick snacks for waiting passengers.
• Eco‑friendly design, incorporating solar panels and rainwater harvesting where possible.

The aim is to turn a simple bus stop into a mini‑transport hub that offers a seamless, pleasant, and safe experience for all users.

How Portsmouth Is Taking the Lead

Portsmouth’s implementation is set to cover 18 strategically‑chosen stops across the city centre and surrounding suburbs. The first phase, which opened in late July, includes stops on routes 2, 4, 7, 12, and 22 – the most heavily used services in the area. The new stops are located at key interchange points: near the Guildhall, the Royal Victoria Hospital, the Portsmouth Marina, and the popular Southsea beachfront.

Mayor Peter Glanville announced the launch at a press event held in the new Super Stop at Guildhall Square. “This is a watershed moment for Portsmouth’s public transport,” Glanville said. “By investing in world‑class bus stops, we’re not only making commuting easier but we’re also encouraging more people to leave their cars at home.”

According to the council’s transport strategy document (link available on the council’s website), the pilot is funded by a £2.3 million grant from the Department for Transport’s “Transport Innovation Fund”, matched by £800 k from the Portsmouth City Council and £200 k from private sector partners such as the Portsmouth Port Authority.

The Benefits Already Being Felt

Within weeks of opening, passenger surveys indicate a noticeable uptick in satisfaction. A recent survey conducted by the Transport for Portsmouth (TfP) found that 84 % of users felt the new stops were easier to navigate, and 77 % reported that the real‑time information screens helped them plan their journeys better.

Sarah Patel, a resident who works as a nurse at Royal Victoria Hospital, said: “The new stop on route 2 has a real‑time display that tells me exactly when the bus will arrive. It saves me so much time and makes the wait less stressful.”

For people with mobility issues, the impact has been even more significant. “I have a wheelchair and the old bus stops were a nightmare,” says Mohammed Ali, who commutes from the Southsea area. “Now there are ramps and the shelter is large enough that I can sit comfortably without having to stand in the rain.”

The upgraded stops also complement Portsmouth’s broader bus‑priority scheme. With dedicated bus lanes on main roads, the combination of efficient stops and priority signalling has reduced average journey times by an estimated 12 %.

Community and Economic Impact

Beyond improving travel, the Super Stops are expected to bring a boost to local businesses. By creating a more attractive transit environment, the city hopes to increase footfall in nearby shops and restaurants. The council’s economic analysis predicts a potential £500 k uplift to local commerce over the next three years.

Portsmouth’s tourism board also lauded the initiative. “Portsmouth is a popular destination for tourists, many of whom rely on buses to get around,” said tourism director Lisa Carter. “The Super Stops provide a level of comfort and convenience that will enhance their experience and, in turn, encourage repeat visits.”

Looking Ahead

While the current rollout covers 18 stops, the council’s long‑term vision is to extend the Super Stop network to the entire city, eventually encompassing 45 stops. The transport strategy notes that the next phase will focus on the East End and the new Portsmouth Innovation Campus.

“Super Stops aren’t just about bus stops,” Mayor Glanville added. “They’re about reimagining public transport as a key component of urban life, encouraging sustainable mobility and strengthening the community.”

Portsmouth’s move has already attracted interest from neighboring councils. A joint statement from the South East England Regional Transport Partnership highlighted the pilot as a model worth emulating, citing the Department for Transport’s own “Best Practices” report (link available on the Department for Transport’s website) that cites Portsmouth as a success story.

For commuters and city dwellers, the Super Stop launch signals a new era of bus travel that prioritises safety, accessibility, and real‑time convenience. As the city continues to refine the concept, other UK urban centres may soon follow Portsmouth’s lead, ushering in a wave of modernised bus infrastructure across the nation.