Brighton resident Thomas O’Connor regularly takes the bus to travel around the city.
However, the retired social worker has become frustrated by the number of people putting their feet up on the seats – a habit which he described as “unhygienic” and “disrespectful”.
Mr O’Connor said that the issue is particularly prevalent at the back of the bus, where the seats face towards each other, however he had seen it happening on other seats.
To help combat the issue, Mr O’Connor wrote to Brighton and Hove Buses to share some suggestions which he believes would encourage passengers to stop doing it. He said he is yet to receive a response.
Mr O’Connor wrote to Brighton and Hove Buses to share his suggestions (Image: The Argus)
The Brighton man suggested several solutions including the driver refusing to move the bus if people have their feet on the seats, introducing fines, or making sure all seats face forward, but he did note it would be “whether the drivers would be willing to do that”.
Although Mr O’Connor said his “best idea” would be to introduce better signage around the seats particularly targeted.
He explained: “I think the least threatening suggestion for the bus company, which would feel like they’ve done something to address the issue, is to put an extra covering on the seats which face one another that says ‘please don’t put feet on seats’.
“It would put pressure on people. People can ignore a sign as they come in, but wouldn’t be able to ignore writing on the seat. It would mean no confrontation.”
Mr O’Connor did however note that the resolution would involve a cost but said it would be “beneficial” to helping tackle the issue.
He added: “It’s a habit people have at home and has extended to being outside. I don’t want to vilify people, it’s a force of habit but people have to sit on those seats. It’s just disrespectful.”
Representative of Brighton Buswatch, Nash Travelman highlighted the importance of “bus etiquette” and encouraged more signage, audio or visual reminders.
He also shared an image of a bus where the rear seats can be lifted to remove the fabric covering, creating a cleanable surface if people did put their feet up however Nash said it is “not something we would support”.
On some buses the seats at the back can be lifted up (Image: Nash Travelman)
He said: “Putting your feet on the seat is one of many poor passenger habits, makes the seats unusable and makes more work for the bus operator. It sets the tone and an makes the journey awkward for the passenger. Other examples include luggage and in some cases animals – which themselves can be of poor condition due to dirt and mud.
“We would encourage all bus users to be aware and adhere to the rules of the bus and conditions of carriage which should be available on the operator’s website.
He added: “It is always useful to be mindful of the written and unwritten expectations – and if your unsure – these are almost always available on the bus or just ask the driver. We all get there quicker if we all work together.”
Nick Hill, commercial director of Brighton and Hove Buses, said: “We acknowledge the passenger’s concerns about behaviour on board bus services and appreciate the suggestions shared.
“We are sorry to hear that earlier correspondence was not responded to, and we will ensure this feedback is reviewed.
“We encourage respectful behaviour to maintain a comfortable environment for all passengers, these comments will be considered as part of a wider campaign we are currently working on.”