New train ticket structure to see 'simpler' fares

A new "simpler" system for buying on-the-day train tickets is being introduced in Greater Manchester.

Transport bosses said the "confusing range" of ticket options currently available will be removed and passengers will be offered two simple options depending on the time of day.

Single journeys will also always be half the price of return trips, reducing costs overall, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) said.

Mayor Andy Burnham said: "In December, Greater Manchester will be the one of the first city regions outside London to get a simple set of on-the-day fares – vital progress in making rail travel easier, fairer and more accessible for everyone."

Currently, more than a dozen different fares are available for journeys on certain routes, including some which restrict customers to travelling on a particular service or with one operating company.

From 7 December passengers buying tickets on the day between two stations in the region will be offered only two options - anytime and off-peak.

Station ticket offices will continue to accept cash payments and print paper tickets. Railcard discounts will still apply, and the season tickets currently on offer in Greater Manchester will remain unchanged.

Transport bosses said more than half of train journeys (52%) in the region would be cheaper

TfGM said more than half of train journeys (52%) in the region will be cheaper, with customers saving up to £1.50 on some trips, as many single fares will be reduced to ensure they are half the price of a return.

On the remaining 48% of journeys, customers will see a slight increase. But for most of these trips (85%), it will be a rise of 20p or less.

Mr Burnham continued: "For too long, confusion around the complicated web of tickets has been a barrier to people choosing the train.

"These simpler fares are a stepping stone to bringing rail into the Bee Network in December 2026, joining up trains with buses, trams and active travel for an integrated public transport system like those enjoyed by other global cities."

It comes after tap-and-go payments were launched across Greater Manchester's Bee Network in March, with capped fares across all its buses and trams.