The fine for travelling on the Tyne Wear Metro without a ticket will soon be increased by 400%.
Nexus has confirmed the penalty for fare evasion will rise from £20 to £100, a rise in line with the same increase in fines for travelling on rail network trains without a ticket.
The new fine rate kicks in on Monday January 23. Fare evaders caught will be charged a £100 penalty, reduced to £50 if paid within 21 days.
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Customer Services Director at Nexus, Huw Lewis, said: “The Government is raising the penalty fare from £20 to £100 and this change will automatically apply on Metro from Monday January 23. Metro is part of the Government’s national penalty fare regime covering train companies across the whole country.
“This is the first change since 2005 and reflects feedback from customers who want to see a strong deterrent against fraud. Anyone who is issued with a £100 penalty fare will pay £50 if it is paid within 21 days of it being issued.
“The Government consulted the whole rail industry and Nexus was among those keen to see an increase because customers tell us they want tougher penalties for those who decide not to pay their fare.
“The simple message for Metro customers is to pay your fare every time you travel.”
Nexus will also no longer let fare evaders pay their penalty on the spot.
The penalty fare has been £20 since May 2005.
Card payments will instead be taken online at payments.nexus.org.uk or by calling Nexus’ 24-hour automated payment line on 0191 814 7699.
In-person payments can still be made at the reception at South Gosforth Metro Control Centre or by post Customer Relations, Metro Control Centre, Station Road, South Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1YT. Cheque or Postal Orders made payable to 'Nexus', with the Penalty Fare Notice enclosed.
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