Bus travel in Somerset is set for a major upgrade as the government prepares to launch ‘Project Coral,’ a scheme aimed at simplifying bus ticketing by allowing passengers to use one ticket across multiple bus operators. This multi-operator ticketing system will eliminate the hassle of purchasing separate tickets for different bus companies on the same journey.
Led by Transport for the West Midlands, Project Coral is currently in discussions with the UK’s five largest bus operators—Arriva, First Group, Go-Ahead, National Express, and Stagecoach. The focus of these talks is to finalize the administrative and financial arrangements behind the scenes to make seamless ticket sharing a reality.
Somerset Council has confirmed that if the ongoing pilot proves successful, the similar multi-operator ticketing system could be introduced across the South West region within the next 12 months. Natasha Bates, service manager for transport planning at the council, shared updates during the recent bus advisory board meeting.
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According to Bates, Project Coral aims to establish a unified back-office system that will manage revenue division from multi-operator ticket sales efficiently. “The Department for Transport is clear that local authorities should adopt this standardized system rather than creating individual solutions,” she explained, emphasizing the government’s push for widespread adoption of multi-operator ticketing.
A major feature of the initiative is a contactless, tap-on/tap-off payment platform designed to work nationwide, making bus travel more accessible and convenient for passengers.
Bates added that the tendering process for the service provider has concluded, and a contract is imminently expected to be signed. Following this, local transport authorities, including those in the South West, will be contacted to confirm their participation and begin implementing the system. While the precise costs and operational details remain unknown, Somerset is proactively collaborating with Peninsula Transport and neighboring authorities to prepare for the transition.
Peninsula Transport represents a cross-county partnership of councils from Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset, and Torbay, working together to improve regional transport, including bus and rail networks. Councillor Richard Wilkins, responsible for transport and waste services in Somerset, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, encouraging the Department for Transport to accelerate the project’s rollout.
“The goal is seamless travel across borders with all operators working together. The government is on the right track, and we hope they proceed swiftly,” said Wilkins.
Further updates on Project Coral’s impact in Somerset will be provided at the forthcoming bus advisory board meeting scheduled for June 23.