NEW technology could mean bus passengers have to deal with fewer late services.

A recent trial carried out by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) could see punctuality improved on some of the region’s busiest routes.

The four-week long pilot will see engineers test SCOOT (Split Cycle Offset Optimisation Technique), technology.

This analyses real-time traffic data to co-ordinate traffic signal timings.

By using transmitters found on most modern buses, the system identifies late running services approaching and extends the green time as they approach lights – effectively enabling late running services to pass through the junction without the need to stop and wait.

Alison Chew, Head of Bus Services at TfGM, said: “Tackling congestion and improving air quality are two priorities for us at the minute and clearly measures that improve the reliability of public transport is one way of encouraging more people to leave the car at home."