Transport for Wales' (TfW) new pay-as-you-go system could lead to some rail passengers paying more, according to a warning from Flintshire Council. The system charges all users an adult fare, which may affect those eligible for concessionary rates.
The pay-as-you-go scheme, promoted for use on the Wrexham-Bidston Borderlands Line, allows contactless debit card or smartphone payments for adult single journeys without advance ticket purchase. However, the council noted that the system does not support child, family, or pensioner concessionary fares, nor railcard discounts.
Councillor Alasdair Ibbotson first raised concerns in July, stating that station signage did not explain the lack of concessionary support. He criticised the messaging that the system offers "best value fare," as some passengers could pay less through other ticketing options.
Flintshire Council has advised rail passengers to check for cheaper travel options before using pay-as-you-go. Glyn Banks, cabinet member for waste and transportation, highlighted that while convenient, it is not always the cheapest choice.
TfW has stated it is "actively reviewing" how to communicate alternative ticketing options to customers. The company is exploring a pilot for linking eligible railcards to pay-as-you-go accounts and hopes to introduce child fares in the future.