Sittingbourne-based operator Chalkwell has announced all of the ticket machines on its local bus services, including those on school services, have been upgraded to receive contactless payments as part of wider ‘covid-secure’ measures that the firm has taken.
Chalkwell says its upgraded Ticketer machines allow it to reduce the amount of cash handling that takes part on a day-to-day basis and reduces time spent by passengers dwelling at the front of the vehicle. Customers can now pay for their travel by card or Google Pay and Apple Pay on their mobile phone. The operator said that cash payments will still be accepted but should only be used where unavoidable.
Roland Eglinton, Managing Director, said: “These new ticket machines are a huge step forward for us, and represent a significant investment in our bus network. It allows the customer much more reassurance in these times when their safety and well-being is paramount. It’s also ideal for parents who don’t want to give their children amounts of cash to be able to pay for a bus ticket when they can now simply tap a card or a mobile phone.”
Other covid-secure measures to ensure that customers are well protected whilst travelling including a thorough risk assessment, disinfectant fogging, reduced vehicle capacities, protective screens and hand sanitiser on vehicles: the company has produced a handy guide for customers explaining the measures taken, which can be found on the firm’s website.
“Whether it is a group hiring a coach for the day, a business transporting it’s staff or children travelling to school, customers can rest assured they are in safe hands with Chalkwell,” Roland added.
