An innovative city-wide transport app that shares real-time information and books tickets regardless of the operator is one step nearer thanks to MK Council’s 5G plans.

On the new app, passengers would be able to check how far away a vehicle is and how many seats are available in real time, and easily plan, book and pay for transport in a single transaction. The app is being made possible to due to MK Council developing a reliable local 5G service, which recently made headlines when a trial of 5G-powered driverless vehicles began at Stadium MK.

The Council hopes better real time information will encourage more people into trying sustainable transport. It would eventually integrate the app into its existing journey planning website and app, www.getaroundmk.org.uk.

A decision to select a developer for the new app is set for 8 March.

Cabinet Member for Climate and Sustainability, Cllr Jenny Wilson-Marklew said: “MK is leading the way yet again, making it easier for people to get around when they use more sustainable transport choices. The app will give passengers greater confidence that a vehicle is on its way and how long a journey by public transport will actually take. Uncertainty is one of the reasons some people are put off using public transport, so we hope these kind of innovations will encourage more residents to give public transport a try.”