£18m project launched to develop contactless access on public transport

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) is working with the UK 's principal bus operators to launch a major fare capping project to offer passengers best value and greater convenience when using their credit or debit card on public transport.

Over the next two years, a system will be developed to allow passengers to use their contactless cards across a range of transport modes and operators, which will mean 'best value ' fares are applied automatically.

This will effectively enable any debit or credit card for multi operator travel which will offer visitors and those who are not regular public transport users the benefits of seamless travel by simply tapping on and off buses in the region.

This scheme is one of several innovations being delivered over the next two years after TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), secured £18m funding from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.

And while many costs have risen, bus and tram travel remain at great value. Bus fares are among the lowest in the country - including multi-operator daysaver, which at £4.20 is the same price it was in 2013. TfWM is working with operators and Government through the region 's Bus Service Improvement Plan to further improve value for passengers.

The multi operator contactless fare capping project being pioneered by TfWM and the national bus operators could also be rolled out further afield through partnerships with Midlands Connect meaning that the scheme could cover the wider region of Midlands.

West Midlands mayor Andy Street said: “Given the cost of living pressures facing local residents right across our region, the pay as you go options, flexible tickets and season passes offered via Swift have an important role to play in reducing household outgoings during these challenging times.

“Thanks to the operators we work closely with, the West Midlands has some of the lowest fares in the country. This is especially true on our excellent value bus network, which is further boosted by the news this week that the Department for Transport will cap single fares at £2 for a period.

Cllr Ian Ward, WMCA portfolio holder for transport and leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Swift is a national leader in smart ticketing and this investment will take it to the next level for passengers - offering everyone the lowest fare guaranteed on public transport with just a tap of their bank card.

“Offering better value and convenience is a key part of our plans to encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport as we tackle the climate emergency, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the air we breathe.