Tap in, tap out smartcards rolled out at rail stations

Contactless payments at Great Western Railway stations in the South West such as Bath Spa have been introduced.

Rail customers across the South West are now able to tap in and out to access local rail services.

The “GWR touch” smartcard is now available to use across the west of England area and valid on GWR, Cross Country and Transport for Wales rail services within the pay-as-you-go boundary.

Dan Norris, the Metro Mayor of the West of England would like the pay as you go fares to be linked with contactless fares on local buses, although it has been stressed that this is an aspiration rather than anything concrete right now.

“If we are going to reach our really ambitious net-zero-by-2030 target, we need to make it as easy and affordable as possible for West of Englanders to use public transport,” he said.

“This will help us cut congestion, improve road safety and begin to clean up our air too.

“With money tight it’s good to know you’ll always be charged the best value walk-up, flexible fare.”

Customers can register for a GWR touch smartcards now at: www.gwr.com/your-tickets/choosing-your-ticket/smart-tickets/ touch/payg