Request ID: FOI-2751-2122 Date published: 14 March 2022
You asked
When did it happen that all bus stops operate as 'Request' even though the roundels remain as 'Compulsory'? The same when wanting to get off a bus - one has to ring the bell, even though the stop is meant to be compulsory?
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-2751-2122
Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 27th February 2022 asking for information about bus stops.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.
Specifically you asked:
“When did it happen that all bus stops operate as 'Request' even though the roundels remain as 'Compulsory'? The same when wanting to get off a bus - one has to ring the bell, even though the stop is meant to be compulsory?”.
It is not the case that all bus stops operate as “request” stops, and there are no stops branded ‘Compulsory’. Since 2008, the white stops – with red roundels - have been branded ‘Bus Stop’ (as shown below) while in parts of Outer London there remain a small number of red stops – with white roundels - branded ‘Request’ that are treated the same as the white stops.
Instructions to bus drivers are outlined in their operating manual (the ‘Big Red Book’) as follows:
Serving the stop 1 Stop when someone has pressed the bell or asked to get off at the next stop. • When approaching a stop, check if anyone has indicated that they wish to get off. They would usually press the bell, but they might ask • Stop within the bus stop road markings unless there is a valid reason not to, such as roadworks or parked vehicles • Stop close enough to the kerb so customers can get off easily. Lower the bus if this will help • Position the bus so you can safely extend the accessibility ramp if needed
2 Stop if anyone is waiting at the bus stop, making sure you check the area. • Stop at any stop on your route if someone is waiting by, sitting down or has signalled to you • Slow down while approaching the stop to check there are no customers waiting • If there is any doubt, stop • Look out for older and disabled customers, especially blind and partially sighted people. Remember that not all impairments or conditions can be seen
Advice for customers is shown on our website here:
“At the bus stop... Bus drivers always look out for anyone waiting to board a bus.”
“Getting off a bus - Next stop information is displayed on the information screens and announced on all of our buses. When your stop is displayed and announced, please press the bell once and in good time. This lets the driver know you intend to get off.”
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 as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.
Yours sincerely,
David Wells FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
