Tap off or pay in full, NET passengers warned, as single hop journeys launched
THE operator of Nottingham’s tram network has repeated its “zero tolerance” stance on avoiding fares as a new ‘tap on, tap off’ system for £1.50 journeys launches.
NET revealed in March it was rolling out the new payment system for its short hop journeys.
Passengers currently have to purchase a short hop ticket at an NET ticket machine. Since Tuesday, passengers can now tap their card on a validator at the start of their journey and at the end. As the new system launches, NET has warned those forgetting to tap off at the end of the journey will be charged full price. The operator says: “It is your responsibility to ensure you tap on and off again and that you’re doing so in the correct zones. If you fail to tap off again, then instead of the short hop ticket price of £1.50, you’ll be charged the standard single ticket price of £3.20.
“NET will not be issuing any refunds for any incorrectly purchased tickets. As per our ongoing zero tolerance stance towards fare evasion, anyone caught travelling without a valid ticket will receive a ‘no questions asked’ £70 Penalty Fare Notice.
“If left unpaid, this could leave them liable for prosecution, with a further fine of up to £1,000 and a criminal record next to their name.”
There are nine short hop zones along the NET network, covering areas including Bulwell and the city centre. Andrew Conroy, chief operating officer at NET said: “Thousands of tram users who use our network each day will be able to reap the benefits of even more convenient tram travel.
“It’s a really exciting step for us as it marks just one of a number of initiatives we’ve been working on to help make tram travel easier for all.
“We’re always really passionate about celebrating all Nottingham has to offer. Now, for just £1.50 and a couple of quick taps, passengers will be able to access a range of key spots across the city for less.”