If all goes as planned a new smart card-based ticketing system could make its way onto buses in Southend-on-Sea, UK, according to echo-news.co.uk.

The local council has requested £2.1 million in government funding to support a plan which includes the launch a new electronic smart card ticketing system, similar to London’s contactless fare payment card named Oyster.

“The Oyster-style system would be much more convenient,” said Tony Cox, the council member responsible for transport. Cox also said the card could also be used as payment for other services, such as libraries and school buses, as well as support a new metro train ticket, allowing rail passengers to hop on and off throughout the day.

To encourage more people to use public transport, the proposed plan also includes renovating bus stops and introducing shelters and electronic information displays at key sites. The council is even considering the redesign of roads and junctions to give buses priority.

Read the full story here