From 13 September, conductors will be withdrawn from West Midlands Metro services, and customers will need to buy their ticket before they board the tram.
To help everyone get used to the change, Metro colleagues will be out across the network over the coming weeks, offering support and guidance as customers adjust to the new ticketing arrangements.
Michael Reading-Skilton, Metro’s Head of Commercial and Customer Experience, explained: “First and foremost, our teams will aim to help customers get used to the new Buy Before You Board system. When it comes into effect next month, it will no longer be possible to buy a ticket on the tram and customers without a valid ticket or pass could be liable for a Penalty Fare.”
To make buying before boarding as easy as possible additional ticket machines have been installed at all stops, and a wide range of value‑for‑money fares are available through the MyMetro app.
Alongside this, Revenue Officers will be introduced across the network to inspect tickets and passes. Anyone travelling without a valid ticket or pass for the correct time and zones of their journey will be issued a £100 penalty fare.
“We know the vast majority of customers expect everyone to pay their way, so penalty fares will start to be issued to anyone travelling without a valid ticket or pass.”
“As we count down to the launch of the new arrangements, I would encourage customers to start getting into the habit of buying before boarding now, rather than risking getting caught out later.” Michael added.
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