Contactless payments now accepted on all Blackpool Transport buses
It's finally arrived!
Last updated 15th Feb 2021
Contactless payment has arrived at Blackpool Transport and wraps up a number of years of investment totalling more than £20m in Blackpool’s bus network to refresh its old and time expired bus fleet.
Blackpool Transport introduced contactless payments on all buses on 14th February with more developments such as ‘tap and go’ ticketing and contactless payments on its famous trams following soon after.
Investment in brand new ticket machines means a customer can use their contactless credit or debit card for a quick, easy and in current times, safe way to pay. Apple and Android pay are also accepted. A customer simply asks the driver for a ticket then pops their card on the reader when prompted, making travel much safer during the current climate.
Blackpool Transport’s investment in new ticket machines is paving the way for several enhancements to public transport on the Fylde Coast. Security is being increased on paper and digital tickets with the introduction of QR code scanning, reducing potential fraud and speeding up boarding times.
Following soon after contactless payments will be a Tap and Go travel option, with customers automatically charged the best value fare for their journey. Bus occupancy information will also be made available in Blackpool Transport’s mobile app later this year, meaning customers can see how many seats are available on their next bus, including wheelchair bay availability.
Jane Cole, Managing Director from Blackpool Transport said: "We are always proud to say that we work in collaboration with industry suppliers and this project has been an excellent example of working together to deliver better for our customers."
"The improvement work never stops here at Blackpool Transport and we have plans to deliver a tram ticketing solution to accept contactless payments later this year. Although it has been an unusual and challenging time for the industry, standing still can never be an option if we are to make bus travel even better than before."
"The latest investments are making public transport more accessible than ever before and we look forward to welcome our residents and visitors back onboard soon."