Portsmouth is set to receive 27 new enhanced bus shelters featuring smart technology and green infrastructure as part of a major transport improvement initiative beginning this month.
Portsmouth City Council has partnered with Bauer Media Outdoor UK to deliver significant improvements to bus travel across the city. The initiative will introduce 27 advanced bus shelters at strategic locations, with installation commencing later this month.
These enhanced shelters will feature various amenities including intelligent lighting systems, live travel updates, complimentary public Wi-Fi, emergency defibrillators, and eco-friendly Living Roofs aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, security, and accessibility. Installation sites include Cosham, Palmerston Road, Fratton Bridge, and South Parade, with the majority scheduled for completion in 2026.
Each shelter’s specifications have been individually assessed to ensure modifications suit local requirements and site characteristics whilst delivering value for money. The transport sector commonly refers to these upgraded facilities as Super Stops – premium, well-equipped bus infrastructure designed to enhance the passenger journey. For Portsmouth, these represent a major advancement in public transport waiting facilities.
This development forms part of Portsmouth’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), backed by £52 million funding from the Department for Transport, designed to make bus travel more convenient, dependable, and appealing for all users.
Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, commented: “Portsmouth’s transport revolution is progressing well. These enhanced bus shelters will benefit everyone who uses them, whether travelling to work, shopping, or attending medical appointments. Through investment in smarter, greener, superior infrastructure, we’re making public transport more accessible, reliable, and welcoming for all journey types.”
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In addition to the new shelters, Bauer Media Outdoor and the council are implementing a city-wide renewal of existing bus stops through their Revive programme. This encompasses replacing outdated shelters, upgrading illumination, installing Living Roofs where feasible, and enhancing signage and accessibility features.
The renewal follows a comprehensive 72-point assessment of 572 bus stops throughout Portsmouth. Where practical, by enhancing and extending existing infrastructure lifespan whilst reducing carbon emissions, the programme supports the council’s dedication to sustainable construction and inclusive travel.
Portsmouth secured gold at the National Bus Awards and will host the Quality Bus Conference in 2025. Attendees from across the UK will visit the city to observe and explore the developments being implemented and participate in guided tours of the upgraded infrastructure.
For further information about the conference, visit www.qualitybus.uk/conference-programme-2025
