An Oyster card-style system for public transport in Nottingham will be up and running by the end of the year.
Tram and bus companies are working with the City Council to finalise final details about the new card, which is scheduled to launch on December 14.
The idea has long been debated in Nottingham because of the city’s tram network, several bus companies and new ‘transport hub’ at Nottingham station.
The new move will mean people will be able to travel on any of the bus and tram services by using one contactless card – similar to the Oyster system in London, which has been running since 2003.
NET, which operates the tram network, says it welcomes the plans and is working with the City Council to conclude the final details.
David Thornhill, from Nottinghamshire Campaign for Better Transport, said: “You’ve got various bus companies competing with each other but it does create inconvenience because if you want the best fare deals, you have to have a travel ticket from each of the separate companies.”
Video: Nottingham tram and bus passengers give their views on the new card
The cards will be available from vending machines across the city and it is expected journeys bought on them will workout cheaper than using cash.
They will initially only be available for use in and around the city but in future the service could be expanded across Nottinghamshire.
