The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced the latest extension of its location-based digital ticketing trial to include Northern services between Sheffield and Doncaster, starting today (03 November).
Over 2000 journeys have been made using the technology thus far on trials on a selection of existing Northern and East Midlands Railway services following a launch in September.
The technology allows passengers to both check in and out on rail journeys using a location-identifying application on their phone, which tracks journeys via GPS (Global Positioning System) technology before automatically charging the passenger at the end of the working day.
Those choosing to take part in the trial have been rewarded with 15 GBP worth of free travel, with credit added to their account automatically.
Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:The railway ticketing system is far too complicated and long overdue an upgrade to bring it into the 21st century. Through these trials, we’re doing just that and making buying tickets more convenient, more accessible and more flexible.
As part of our Plan for Change, we’re delivering straightforward, stress-free train travel across the North, supporting passengers and boosting economic growth, jobs and homes.
Those interested in taking part can sign up for the trials on Northern’s website.
In addition to its inclusion on the Sheffield – Doncaster line; the DfT has also announced that the trials will be introduced on Northern’s Sheffield – Barnsley route from 01 December 2025.
Mayor of South Yorkshire, Oliver Coppard, said:It’s encouraging to see new technology being trialled to make rail travel easier for us all here in South Yorkshire. We know ticketing can be a barrier, especially for people who don’t travel often, so anything that helps make the system more straightforward to use is a step in the right direction.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on how this trial works for passengers. If it helps break down barriers and makes rail more accessible for everyone, then it’s something we’ll want to build on.
