Can you please let me know (relative to the B14 bus route, running from Bexleyheath to Orpington): - The capacity of single decker buses such as this. - Whether you receive information from local councils with regard the expected number of users on 'school journey linked' routes (e.g., linked to the geographic locations of students awarded places for schools, and therefore expected travel requirements in peak times (before and after school, i.e., from 715am - 830am and from 3pm - 4pm). - Details of how over-crowding (and inability to collect passengers waiting for a bus, yet unable to board) are recorded and processed. Many thanks in advance of your reply.

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Our ref: FOI-1707-1920

Thank you for your request received on 6 September 2019 asking for information about buses.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our Information Access Policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you requested. You asked:

Can you please let me know (relative to the B14 bus route, running from Bexleyheath to Orpington):

1)The capacity of single decker buses such as this.

The B14 uses 9-metre single deck buses with a maximum capacity of 45 passengers.

2) Whether you receive information from local councils with regard the expected number of users on 'school journey linked' routes (e.g., linked to the geographic locations of students awarded places for schools, and therefore expected travel requirements in peak times (before and after school, i.e., from 715am - 830am and from 3pm - 4pm).

We have access to the London schools atlas, which records the number of pupils at each school. As a matter of course, councils do not send bus network planning details of school numbers unless a new school is planned and we receive the build up of passengers.

3) Details of how over-crowding (and inability to collect passengers waiting for a bus, yet unable to board) are recorded and processed.

Overcrowding can be calculated from two sources: oyster / contactless data and surveys. We have fully calibrated processes to convert the oyster / contactless data into passenger loads at each stop and we can review the recorded data for each and every day. This includes an allowance for passengers not tapping in. Surveys are undertaken on the bus or at the busiest stop. We can also undertake ad-hoc surveys which will capture information at any stop. Surveys will record passengers left behind as well as those who are boarding and alighting. The information is then used to calculate capacity required over the busiest hour, with an allowance made for reliability.

If this is not the information you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely,

Melissa Nichols

FOI Case Officer

General Counsel

Transport for London

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