The input from passengers showed what is on the minds of everyday public transport users. A selection of the reactions:

• “Nice that we’re allowed to think along about the colours. Of course it should still stay a bit cheerful on the bus”
• “Really nice that we can even try out sitting on different seats. I’ve never experienced that before.”
• “I think safety is important; on the train you can message a number if you feel unsafe—could that also be possible on the bus?”
• “Great that there will soon be a low step entry on the bus, so that people who are less mobile can also get on the bus easily.”

Open and accessible contact

The audience on 17 June consisted of a mix of daily travellers, occasional users and interested people. Participants could try out sitting on different seats, assess upholstery, think about the colour scheme of the interior and make suggestions about tables and USB points on the bus. The accessibility worked well: there was room for spontaneous conversations, experiences and questions. EBS staff and representatives of the Province of Zeeland were on hand to answer questions. At the location in Middelburg, the activity was briefly disrupted by five demonstrators. 

Conversation with drivers and interest groups

On Wednesday 18 June, the conversation continued with several other important groups: the drivers, the provincial passenger consultative body (OPOV) and a number of neighbourhood bus associations. Among other things, they discussed the possibilities of the onboard computer for drivers, the placement of equipment and the accessibility of the buses. There was ample opportunity to ask questions and provide advice. Finally, a number of the drivers present also took a test drive in the new bus.