Passport to Newport

12.29.16pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 16th Jun 2010

Local Liberal Democrats have welcomed the introduction of new smartcard tickets to Newport's buses. The new cards known as "Passport" are similar to London's Oyster Cards and users will shortly be able to top up the cards online for when they want to travel.

Beechwood Councillor Jeff Evans said: "We're pleased that Newport Transport is the first bus company in Wales to introduce local Oyster cards. It marks another step in transforming our local bus services and make travelling by bus easier. The Council is now working more closely with the Company than before on further improvements such as plans for a new bus station for Newport and interim upgrades to the existing one.

"If we are to reduce congestion in Newport, it is important that there is an attractive alternative" said Jeff.