Association of Transport Co-ordinating Officers – PRINTED PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION 2003

Description

This Code of Good Practice (ATCO, 2002/2003), endorsed by DPTAC and produced with transport bodies, sets standards for printed public transport information to help local authorities meet duties under the Transport Act 2000 and the DDA. It covers availability (timetables, maps and accessibility info should be obtainable at key public locations), timely publication (new timetables at least seven days before changes, with advance notices via at least two channels) and a single area-wide listing of publications. Detailed presentation guidance addresses legibility: simple sans-serif typefaces, preferably 14pt (minimum 8pt), leading ≥120%, good paper and strong contrast, limited background tinting, and use of 24-hour clock with explanation. Timetable layout standards include prominent route identity, clear route headings, consistent timing-point names (NaPTAN), vertical time columns, clear day-of-week labelling, minimal and explained codes, plain English, and use of standard icons (eg wheelchair symbol). Publishers must provide alternative formats (large print 16–22pt, braille, audio, textphone), include maps, indexes, fares summary, traveline and TRIPSCOPE contacts, and show validity dates; sample timetables are appended.