Member Article

Stagecoach completes region’s smart ticketing rollout

Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire has successfully rolled out its new paperless smart ticketing system across the region.

The bus operator successfully trialled the smart ticketing scheme in Lancashire.

Now the company is offering a paperless ‘StagecoachSmart’ ticketing option on all long term adult tickets throughout its operations in Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire.

In Merseyside, Stagecoach and Arriva have partnered, making it more convenient for passengers using Quality Bus Network routes.

The operators have worked together to sync ticket machines, allowing passengers to use both companies weekly and M-tickets on either operators services. The new system also incorporates the acceptance of Merseytravel’s Walrus travel card.

Elisabeth Tasker, managing director of Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, said: “Ensuring that passengers who travel with us are able to benefit from integrated, seamless ticketing systems is a key priority for the business, so we’re delighted to have successfully rolled out this new service for passengers across the region.

“In Merseyside, we’ve worked closely with Arriva to pioneer a joined-up approach to smart-ticketing which also dovetails with Merseytravel’s existing Walrus card. We’re confident that this partnership will provide real benefits for passengers and create a more joined-up, convenient travel experience.

“Smart-ticketing is a logical step for the travel industry; it’s a sustainable, convenient option which provides real environmental and operational efficiencies, and we look forward to working alongside our fellow operators to ensure that passengers continue to reap the benefits of this new system.”

StagecoachSmart tickets offer an optional online registration system which means that if cards are lost or stolen, they can be replaced for free.

Passengers can buy or top up adult weekly tickets online or on the bus. Regular users benefit from travel savings when they buy four-week and Megarider Xtra tickets online.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .