Translink Press Release: Citybus goes Plastic Fantastic - Translink
15 November 2002
Citybus (now Metro) passengers are set to benefit from the latest smart technology, as Translink today (15 November) launches ‘Smartlink’, the first commercial multi-journey smartcard.
The innovative new Smartlink Multi-Journey Card replaces the traditional 4-journey paper tickets. It is a reusable, plastic, credit card sized travel pass which stores journeys electronically. Translink is the first public transport provider in the UK to use this ‘smartcard’ technology to enable its customers to pre-buy their journeys.
The new Card was launched today (15th November) by Mr Stephen Quinn, Permanent Secretary for the Department for Regional Development and Dr Joan Smyth CBE, NITHC Chairman. Speaking at the launch, Dr Smyth explained how Smartlink would offer numerous benefits for Citybus (now Metro) passengers:
“The introduction of Smartlink represents another significant step in the roll out of Translink’s £6.3million ticketing project which has been funded by a grant provided by the DRD. We have already experienced tremendous success with the Senior Smartpass, which was introduced in May 2002. Already 143,000 passes have been issued to Senior Citizens and War Pensioners, and more than 3 million journeys made to date. We are fully confident that Smartlink will emulate that success, as it will deliver substantial benefits to Citybus (now Metro) users.”
The new Smartlink card stores rides and can be loaded with anything from 5 to 40 journeys at a time, in multiples of 5. The card will hold a maximum of 50 journeys, offering passengers the convenience and flexibility to purchase just a few journeys or a month’s worth at a time. It also offers passengers substantial savings of over 22% on the normal cash fare.
Dr Smyth continued, “As well as reduced fares, Smartlink offers passengers a safer, cash free method of payment and faster boarding times. Lost or stolen cards can be cancelled or ‘hot-listed’ preventing anyone from using them. In addition to adult passes, Smartlink Cards are also available at child rates, providing parents with the reassurance that their children always have sufficient fares. Another advantage is that the Smartlink Card is fully transferable so that it can be shared between friends and family.”
Translink’s Managing Director, Mr Ted Hesketh explained the company’s plans to raise passenger awareness of Smartlink, saying,
“We have already embarked on an extensive public information campaign, through radio and bus advertising, posters and leafleting passengers directly. During November, an information point will also be in place at Castle Lane in Belfast. With the support of our Agents across Belfast, we are determined to do all that we can to ensure Citybus (now Metro) passengers are aware of the benefits of this exciting new system.”
“Indeed, we will introduce electronic smartcards across both Ulsterbus and Northern Ireland Railways, leading to a fully integrated ticketing system across the network. Translink is fully committed to offering passengers a user friendly public transport service for the 21st Century and Smartlink is a huge step in that direction.”
Smartlink cards and top-ups are available from over 60 Smartlink Agents across the Belfast and Greater Belfast area, including the Citybus (now Metro) Kiosk at Donegall Square West. For further information on outlet locations and other Smartlink details, please contact Translink on 028 90 66 66 30 or click www.translink.co.uk.
Ends
For further information please contact Dana McCusker at Morrow Communications on 028 9039 3837.
Notes to the Editor
From 2 December 2002, the 4-journey paper tickets will no longer be available for sale and, from 31 December, will no longer be eligible for use. 31 January 2003 is the last date on which refunds may be obtained on unused 4-journey tickets.
• Ticketing equipment and smartcards supplied by Wayfarer Transit Systems. Consultants in the development of Smartlink were MVA Ltd.
• Sample fares:
|
Adult |
Child | |||
|
First Purchase |
Top Up |
First Purchase |
Top Up | |
| 5 Journey | ||||
| City Zone |
£5.50 |
£4.25* |
£3.38 |
£2.13 |
| Extended |
£6.50 |
£5.25 |
£3.88 |
£2.63 |
| Cross City |
£9.75 |
£8.50 |
£5.50 |
£4.25 |
| 10 Journey | ||||
| City Zone |
£9.75 |
£8.50* |
£5.50 |
£4.25 |
| Extended |
£11.75 |
£10.50 |
£6.50 |
£5.25 |
| Cross City |
£18.25 |
£17.00 |
£9.75 |
£8.50 |
*Standard City Zone fares cost £1.10 each. However, passengers pay just 85 pence each time they top up their Smartlink card.
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