Tap & Go system launched to 'transform' travel on Merseyrail
Mayor Steve Rotheram says new smart ticketing will make journeys simpler and cheaper
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has unveiled a new contactless Tap & Go system across the Merseyrail network, promising passengers faster, easier and cheaper travel.
The system allows travellers to tap in and out of stations using a MetroCard linked to their bank account, automatically charging the lowest possible fare and removing the need to queue for tickets.
Steve Rotheram said: “Our region deserves a transport system that is simple, affordable, and fit for the future.
"As someone who regularly uses the train myself, I know how much of a difference ‘Tap & Go’ will make for passengers.
"No more queuing, no paper tickets, and no worrying about whether you've bought the right fare. This is about making travel easier for everyone and helping build the fully integrated transport network our residents deserve.”
How the system works
The technology uses station gates and platform validators to log journeys, applying daily and weekly fare caps so passengers always pay the best price.
A pilot run this summer received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with satisfaction scores reaching 4.85 out of 5. Commuters highlighted time savings and reduced hassle as the biggest benefits.
Neil Grabham, Managing Director of Merseyrail, said:
“The introduction of Tap & Go across the Merseyrail network represents a significant advancement in our efforts to make rail travel simpler, faster and accessible for all. We’re proud to support this forward-thinking initiative, which prioritises customer’s experience by eliminating barriers to travel and ensuring the best value fares are always available.”
What’s next
Later this year, a second phase of the rollout will allow passengers to use their bank cards, smartphones or smartwatches directly, without needing a MetroCard.
The launch is part of a multi-million-pound investment in smart ticketing and integrated transport across the Liverpool City Region, alongside the introduction of a £500m fleet of publicly owned trains.
Officials hope the scheme will encourage more people to leave their cars at home, improving air quality and helping achieve the city region’s ambition of becoming net zero carbon by 2035.