Description
The programme examines the operations of two Dial-a-Bus systems and the objectives behind them. The systems examined are those of Harlow, Essex and Sale,Greater Manchester.
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: T341, Systems modelling
Item code: T341; 03; 1976
First transmission date: 23-03-1976
Published: 1976
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:24:30
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Producer: David Nelson
Contributors: John Abbott; W.B Broadbent; Cyril Buckley; Frank Gates; Michael Gerrard; Tom McHugh; Alan Thomas
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Controllers; Harlow; Traffic plan; Transport committee
Footage description: Alan Thomas introduces the programme over film shots of the Harlow dial-a-bus at work. He points out the objectives for students of this programme. Michael Gerrard, Transport Committee, Harlow Council and Alan Thomas explain why old Harlow was chosen for dial-a-bus and how the system was decided on. Shots of the Harlow town centre while they talk. Film shots of the Harlow dial-a-bus control centre and buses at work. Commentary by Alan Thomas explains how the system works. One of the controllers and a driver give their views of the system. Frank Gates, Inspector for London Country Bus Service in Harlow, explains why dial-a-bus can never be profitable there. John Abbott, Godfrey Abbott Group Ltd., and Alan Thomas explain how dial-a-bus was set up in Sale, Greater Manchester. W.B. Broadbent, Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, joins in the discussion. Barry Simpson, Operations Manager, Sale dial-a-bus, discusses some of the factors which contribute to the company's profitability. John Abbot and W.B. Broadbent join in the discussion. Alan Thomas sums up the factors which make it easier for Sale dial-a-bus to be profitable and the factors which make it more difficult to do so at Harlow. Tom McHugh, a T.G.W.U. official, puts the union point of view on Harlow dial-a-bus. Michael Gerrard discusses the Council's political objectives for the Harlow dial-a-bus. Cyril Buckley gives the bus company's reply to these criticisms. Alan Thomas and Michael Gerrard briefly discuss the Harlow District Council's traffic plan for the next ten years or so and the costs which will be involved. The subsidy for dial-a-bus is compared with these figures.
Master spool number: 6HT/72088
Production number: 00525_5272
Videofinder number: 1364
Available to public: yes