Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotherham, has announced the introduction of a Tap-and-go system on the Merseyrail network by autumn. This initiative is part of a commitment to provide a London-style transport system for the people of Liverpool, with a focus on making journeys more affordable and quicker.
Investment of £10 million has been made in public transport ticketing upgrades across the city to facilitate the new contactless payment system. The aim is to encourage more people to utilize Liverpool’s public transport network, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. The implementation of the Tap-and-go system is expected to support Liverpool’s goal of becoming a net Zero Carbon city by 2040, a decade ahead of the government’s national target.
The introduction of this new system will involve two phases. The first phase, scheduled for launch this autumn, will allow Merseyrail customers to use their Metro card linked to their bank account. The second phase, set for 2025, will enable bank cards, mobile phones, and smartwatches to utilize the tap-and-go system without the need for a MetroCard.
Passengers using the system will need to tap in at their starting station and tap out at their destination to ensure they receive the cheapest fares. Daily and weekly pricing caps will also be in place, ensuring that additional journeys become free once the cap is reached. While daily return and Season tickets will still be available for purchase at stations and online, the new Tap-and-go system offers a more convenient and efficient way to travel within the city.
By modernizing the ticketing system with a focus on simplicity and affordability, Liverpool aims to enhance the overall public transport experience for its residents and visitors. Mayor Steve Rotherham views this initiative as a crucial step towards building a system that prioritizes passenger convenience and efficiency over profit.
