New transport boss promises techno revolution

12:39pm Thursday 6th March 2008

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An expert in transport technology, who has helped to develop real-time information and prepaid travel card schemes in Europe and the US, has been hired in Greater Manchester.

David Hytch has been appointed as the new Information Systems Director at Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE).

His team will work on initiatives that use technology to improve public transport in the county.

Mr Hytch said: "I'm delighted to be joining GMPTE at an exciting time for the organisation. I'm looking forward to using technology to make it easier for people to travel on public transport in Greater Manchester.

"We want passengers to be able to get hold of up-to-the-minute information about their services wherever they are, whether it's at work, in town or waiting for a bus. We're also planning to improve the ticketing system to make it simpler to travel on any local bus, train or tram service.

"The Oyster card has transformed the transport system in London. We want to take advantage of new technology to create our own prepaid smartcard in Greater Manchester."

David Leather, GMPTE's Chief Executive, added: "David has a fantastic amount of experience in using technology to improve public transport and I'm delighted he's bringing his skills and knowledge to Greater Manchester.

"Many people are still put off using public transport because they find it daunting. David's team will simplify the ticketing system and making it easier for people to find out about their local services."

David Hytch has joined GMPTE from Logica - a multinational information technology and business services company.

As the Head of the Intelligent Transport Systems Practice, he oversaw the development of real-time passenger information, smartcard and traffic management systems.