Since Transport for Wales launched its pay-as-you-go scheme in 2024, over £1.5 million journeys have been made using the technology.
The tap-on, tap-off option has become the network’s fastest-selling rail product, especially considering that just 8 months ago, the total was much less.
As the only operator outside of London and the South East of England to introduce the system, they are paving the way in the industry.
As part of the South Wales Metro project, the payment option is available at 95 stations to ensure customers receive the right price for their tickets.
The ticket option will be expanded into Network North Wales next year as part of an £800 million investment by Transport for Wales.
“It’s fantastic news that so many people have been benefiting from quick, simple and cost-effective fares through TfW’s pay as you go service. Those journeys were made possible as a result of our £800m investment, which makes it easier for people to use public transport and experience new trains.”
“With the introduction of PAYG across North Wales coming soon, I’m pleased even more people will be able to benefit from flexible and affordable travel across Wales.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates
Responses
This is a great idea in principle and on some metros such as Nottingham works really well, however a few bad experiences with Manchester have stopped me using it. The chief problem is being unable to check the status of your card, it’s alright at quiet times, but when it’s busy there are 4-5 people holding their cards out, you’ve no idea whether yours has registered. I’ve also been overcharged when, to avoid the city centre crush, I’ve taken a longer route. If there is an error then getting this fixed is a nightmare as you end up talking to someone on a switchboard who seems to start from the premise that you are a fare dodger trying to pull a fast one. I hope the TfW system is robust enough to avoid problems such as these.