Essex County Council launches major upgrade of bus shelters to improve accessibility and comfort

100 bus shelters across Essex have been replaced since early September as part of the programme to replace all shelters across the county. 

The first areas to receive the new look shelters included Canvey Island, Benfleet and Rochford, and are a significant improvement on previous and existing shelters found throughout Essex.

As the installation programme continues, bus users can expect new seating, motion sensor lighting, space for wheelchairs and prams, and timetables. Some shelters will also include digital real-time information screens and advertising panels, which are 50% more energy efficient than previous digital screens.

This innovative contract aims to revive roadside bus infrastructure, creating a network that is fit for the future. As part of the 10-year partnership, Bauer Media Outdoor will oversee the installation and maintenance of the new shelters.

The focus in year one of the installation programme is to update shelters where requests for repairs or improvements have been on hold for several years or managed by a previous supplier. This will be followed by a comprehensive programme to upgrade and expand the bus infrastructure across Essex. The Council will invest £3 million in the first year of the contract to replace and upgrade over 200 bus shelters.

The programme was recently rolled out in Colchester, where 100 new shelters will be installed this year. 

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said:

“I am very pleased that the work to provide the bus users of Essex with smart new bus shelters is making significant progress. now underway. The new shelters offer improved provisions and much-needed infrastructure to Essex.”

“This is going to be a huge task, but the fact that the upgrade programme has already replaced 100 shelters in seven months means taking the bus is quickly becoming a more pleasant and accessible experience. I hope this will encourage more people to take the bus, encouraging more travel choice and a Safer, Greener, Healthier Essex.”

Will Ramage, Managing Director at Bauer Media Outdoor, said:

“We’re happy to play a key role in revitalising Essex's bus infrastructure. This project is about more than just shelter upgrades—it's about enhancing the journey for residents, prioritising accessibility, and creating spaces that are fit for the future. Through our partnership with Essex County Council, we're helping transform public transport facilities across the county, setting new standards in comfort, safety, and environmental responsibility.”

The TravelEssex website hosts an interactive map that shows which shelters are to be replaced and when during the first year of the new contract. This will be updated periodically and, in time, will include the timetable for future years.

Under the contract, Bauer Media Outdoor will maintain all shelters as well as install and sell advertising at locations agreed by Essex County Council. The revenue generated from shelter advertising will provide a guaranteed income to the council, which will be invested back into improving the bus infrastructure network.