Locals have responded to Swindon Bus Company’s decision to scrap the travelcard in a bid to digitalise travel for passengers.
The company wrote to customers to explain the card, which is over 10 years old, would be scrapped because it has become “unreliable” and instead passengers could purchase tickets on the Swindon Bus Company app.
From October 27, they will be switching off the ability to buy any new ticket products on the travelcard.
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But locals have expressed their concerns about digitalising ticket purchasing methods, in fears it will alienate older generations and force parents to buy smartphones for their children to be able to travel to school.
Mum Clarissa Fernandes contacted the Advertiser about the changes making her feel “compelled” to buy her 11-year-old son a smartphone.
“My son travels to school by bus with no phone, as I don't think an 11-year-old should have a phone and I'm sure many others do not want to give their children phones, or the elderly don't understand how to use these apps", said Clarissa.
READ MORE: Swindon Bus Company is scrapping service it has offered for over ten years
"With these changes I’m compelled to buy a mobile phone for him. It probably is a norm but I want to avoid it as much as I can.
“Everyone is aware how excessive use of mobile phones can have a number of negative effects on children’s health.
“Here I am being forced to get one when there is something that is working well enough.
“Why are we being forced to pay extra towards phone top-ups and internet – can everyone afford that?”
Another reader commented on social media describing the changes as “unhelpful”, while others said it was “ridiculous.”
“My 15-year-old doesn’t have a smartphone and uses the pass as it’s cheaper to buy a month pass for all the journeys she does for school and socialising. The change means we’re now forced to pay higher prices for travel”, said one reader.
READ MORE: Passenger slams decision to stop using bus station after 7pm
“It’s quite simple, stop using the bus service and then they would be forced to return a travel card due to low passengers. Supply and demand”, commented another.
Meanwhile, another reader commented: “I stopped using my card because the tickets on it expire after one year. I found a much better and quicker way of getting around the town, using a motorbike."
Swindon Bus Company has confirmed that tap-on and tap-off services and contactless payment will still be available alongside mobile app tickets.
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