Launch of pioneering GO-HI transport accessibility app
The Highlands and Islands are leading the way in Scotland with the launch of a ground-breaking new app, writes mark Entwistle.
It is designed to make it easier for residents, tourists and business travellers to access the information they need to make greater use of public transport and car sharing and to decide when cycling is an option.
HITRANS, the regional transport partnership, has developed the bespoke GO-HI branded app in partnership with a leading technology firm to provide instant access to information on buses, trains, taxis, car hire, car clubs, bicycle hire, air travel and ferries.
This allows users to plan their journeys and find, book and pay for all modes of transport in one place using any iPhone or Android mobile device.
GO-HI is powered by Fleetondemand’s Mobilleo Mobilityas-a-Service (MaaS) platform, which has been built to use partner MaaS schemes.
It is being funded by the EU North Sea Region Stronger Combined project and the Scottish Government’s MaaS Investment Fund.
Caol and Mallaig Ward councillor Allan Henderson, who chairs HITRANS, said the pioneering project provided a one-stop-shop for all travel needs.
It combines a journey planner with real-time travel information, tickets and payment options, allowing integration of bus, rail, flight, bike, car club, demand responsive transport (DRT), car rental and taxi operators across the Highlands.
Mr Henderson added: ‘It is an ambitious region-wide solution that has the potential to make a significant contribution to improve accessibility for residents and visitors.
‘It also addresses
Government ambitions to reduce carbon emissions by encouraging a modal shift from sole occupancy cars to shared cars and public transport alternatives.
‘It will also help to create healthier lifestyles by improving the sustainable travel choices people can make in the region including active travel opportunities.’
Since the project began nearly a year ago, a significant amount of data from a wide range of transport users has been gathered to enable GOHI to go live and in the future much more information will be added.