Floating Bus Stops: Design Research and Testing Study

Active Travel England (ATE) and the Department for Transport (DfT) are seeking research support to evaluate different types of bus stop designs and determine when and where each is most appropriate. The study will examine various floating bus stop configurations—including Bus Stop Bypasses, Shared Use Bus Boarders, and backless options—to identify how they can better serve all users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians. Key focus areas include safety, accessibility, and user experience through analysis of critical design variables. The project requires extensive stakeholder engagement and consultation to ensure evidence-based guidance that is widely supported. Successful completion will deliver practical design advice and national consistency standards for bus stops and cycle infrastructure, helping designers address accessibility challenges and remove barriers to safe, inclusive transport infrastructure.