Aberdeenshire Council has launched a free app aimed at providing passengers, including those with disabilities, with better access to public transport and shorter waiting times.

Using the Ready2Go iOS and Android app, passengers across the Inverurie area can plan transport journeys and book rides to meet their needs. The app enables them to view information about a bus’s real-time arrival and track the vehicle along its route.

For disabled passengers, the app supersedes the council’s phone-based request and dispatch service for dial-a-bus services. It includes accessibility features, such as screen-reading features for people with low vision and optimised menus and buttons for those with hand-motor disabilities.

All passengers should benefit from more efficient routes that operate only across the pickup locations of people who have pre-booked their seats.

Aberdeenshire expects the service to connect to some of the main transport hubs in the area including Inverurie, Insch and Kintore railway stations to help improve opportunities for onward travel.

“Since the Covid emergency, travel needs and travel demands have evolved with a massive increase in people working from home, a surge in online shopping and the development of tele-healthcare,” said councillor Peter Argyle, chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services committee.

“Peak workers’ travel requirements – which formed the previous service delivery priority – have diminished significantly and currently all travel demand by bus remains suppressed and generally more local.

“We have consulted widely to gain a far better understanding of travel needs and this has helped shape this excellent new flexible service which I am sure will be of real benefit to local residents.”

Ready2Go was designed in partnership with mobility-as-a-service provider Moovit. It is available to download on the App Store or Google Play.