Then and Now: Peterborough bus operator’s ticket machine technology

Peterborough’s biggest bus operator has celebrated the announcement of new and advanced ticketing technology, which is set to be introduced locally, by releasing a picture of a historic ticket machine from its archive.

Stagecoach East has released the picture of a Setright machine, which was once a well-known feature of transport across the region. The portable Setright used a number of dials and a handle to crank out paper tickets to local people.

Stagecoach, last week, announced that ultra-modern Ticketer TK300 machines will be rolled out across our region. These latest-generation ticket machines are computer-enabled and can store hundreds of routes across different Depots; they dispense tickets at the press of a button. They constantly keep track of where the bus is so that customers can see this information on the Stagecoach App.

They also have QR readers and accept smart and contactless cards for ease of payment, and ensure consistent pricing across the region.

A built-in microphone and speakers can allow two-way communications between Bus Drivers and local Depots.

Darren Roe, Managing Director of Stagecoach East, said: “As we work to introduce these ultra-modern pieces of technology, it is important that we remember our heritage of such iconic items as the ticket machine, but also appreciate the modern technology which helps to get our loyal customers where they need to go as quicky and conveniently as possible.

“A modern bus is a technological marvel - and we are proud to continue to bring modern technology to the heart of this forward-looking and progressive region. Features like contactless payment are essential for new customers in the modern day.”

-- To find out more about local bus routes and services, to buy before you board, and to track your local bus, you can download the Stagecoach Bus App from https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoachbusapp.