Bus passengers benefit from a smarter way to pay for travel

Bus passengers can now use a pay-as-you-go smart card for their journeys as part of a trial project which has now gone live in Blackburn with Darwen as part of the £40m Pennine Reach major transport project.

A live trial is now in operation where passengers can upload money to their NoWSTAR card and then travel hassle free – without worrying about having the right change.

This is a Scheme promoted by NoWcard, which is a partnership between Cumbria and Lancashire County Councils, with Blackpool Council and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

It works on a similar principle to the Oyster card used in London.

Passengers can use it for single and return tickets and any additional ticket types at the Bus Operator’s discretion. It can also be used on different operators’ buses in the local area.

Councillor Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “This new technology will make it easier and hassle free to travel by bus and is an integral part of what the Council is trying to achieve with public transport and Pennine Reach.”

Further information on how to use the NoWSTAR card and how to apply can be found by visiting www.nowcard.org/nowstar.asp

Application forms and advice is also available face to face from Blackburn Visitor Centre in Blackburn Market.

For further information contact the Council’s NoWSTAR helpline on (01254) 588190.

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