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Metrolink considers zone-based ticketing

A new four-zone ticketing system for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink network is under consideration, Transport for Greater Manchester announced on 21 May.

A new four-zone ticketing system for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink network is under consideration, Transport for Greater Manchester announced on 21 May.

If approved, the changes would take place early next year and could cut the current 8556 stop-to-stop fare combinations to just ten zone-based fares. Customers would be able to use one ticket for unlimited travel within their chosen zones.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham described the area’s fares and ticketing system as “too complex, too disjointed and in need of an overhaul.”

Ahead of any potential change, customers will be able to use contactless payments to tap on and off trams, an innovation that is being rolled our across the network later in the year. Combined bus/tram smart card ticketing has already been introduced.

A public consultation exercise on the proposal is set to run ahead of any final decision. This will include an online questionnaire to gather feedback.

A number of stops on the network, including Stretford and Brooklands, fall between two zones; fares here would be calculated on the lower zonal cost relative to the direction of travel.