AN EFFORT to banish congestion from York's streets has been bolstered by a £500,000 windfall - designed to give bus users the low-down.

Users will be able to keep tabs on their transport thanks to a system offering "real-time" information at bus stops, departure points, and on buses themselves.

The funding was awarded to City of York Council by the Department for Local Government and the Regions.

The Bus Location Information Sub System, or BLISS, secures queue-jumping priority over cars for buses at junctions and traffic lights.

Council leaders say the measures will give bus users more confidence in the reliability of timetables, and hopefully persuad more motorists off the road.

BLISS uses satellite communication systems to give buses a green light through traffic signals.

The cash will be used to provide 18 bus stops, the Rawcliffe Bar Park and Ride and key city centre stops with real time information displays, letting commuters know exactly when the next bus will arrive. The facilities should be in place by the end of next year.

Bus users will also experience on-board visual and audible information, letting passengers know where the bus will be stopping next.

In addition, busy commuters will be able to access the information through their mobile phones and over the internet.

Councillor Dave Merrett, the council's executive member for planning and transport, said: "I am absolutely delighted at this news. The council is committed to using the latest technology to get buses through traffic and to help give bus users quicker, more up-to-date information to help them plan their journeys.

"This money will be used as part of our drive to ensure that buses can beat congestion and improve timetabling reliability - helping buses in the city can become a quick, reliable and competitive alternative to people using the private motor car to get about the city."

The success of electronic signs counting down the minutes for bus arrivals in London and other areas, led the council to make a bid for a system for York's bus commuters.

Dan Johnson, the council's principal transport planner, said: "We are harnessing the very latest technology to reduce journey times.

"The aim is and provide the highest quality transport system that will rival the private car and provide York's commuters with the transport system they deserve."

Updated: 12:47 Saturday, March 30, 2002