Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire has successfully rolled out a paperless smart ticketing system across the region.

The operator, which successfully trialled smart ticketing in Lancashire, is now offering a paperless ‘StagecoachSmart’ ticketing option on all long term adult tickets throughout its operations in Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire.

In Merseyside, bus passengers will benefit from a pioneering smart multi-operator ticketing scheme between Stagecoach and Arriva to ensure maximum convenience for passengers travelling on Quality Bus Network routes. The operators have worked together to sync ticket machines, allowing passengers to use both companies weekly and M-tickets on either operators services. The new system also incorporates the acceptance of Merseytravel’s Walrus travel card.

Elisabeth Tasker, managing director of Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, said:

“Ensuring that passengers who travel with us are able to benefit from integrated, seamless ticketing systems is a key priority for the business, so we’re delighted to have successfully rolled out this new service for passengers across the region.

“In Merseyside, we’ve worked closely with Arriva to pioneer a joined-up approach to smart-ticketing which also dovetails with Merseytravel’s existing Walrus card. We’re confident that this partnership will provide real benefits for passengers and create a more joined-up, convenient travel experience.

“Smart-ticketing is a logical step for the travel industry; it’s a sustainable, convenient option which provides real environmental and operational efficiencies, and we look forward to working alongside our fellow operators to ensure that passengers continue to reap the benefits of this new system.”

StagecoachSmart tickets offer an optional online registration system which means that if cards are lost or stolen, they can be replaced for free.

Passengers are able to buy or top up adult weekly tickets online or on the bus. Regular users can benefit from travel savings when they buy 4 week and megarider Xtra tickets online.