Bilston tram passengers wary after conductors removed amid fears over fare dodging

Tram passengers have expressed concerns that the removal of conductors could make it easier for people to travel without paying.

Conductors will be withdrawn from West Midlands Metro services from Sunday, September 13, as the network switches fully to a new "Buy Before You Board" system.

It means passengers travelling between Wolverhampton and Birmingham will need to make sure they have a valid ticket or pass before stepping onto a tram.

Passengers in Bilston were asked for their views on the changes, with some warning that the absence of conductors could encourage fare dodging – although the new system could make journeys simpler for those who pay.

Chris Bradley, 66, and John Clayton, 69, from Stowlawn, were among those to raise concerns about how the system would work.

They said there still needed to be a visible presence on the network, suggesting inspectors could carry out checks to catch passengers attempting to travel without a ticket.

One said: "I think it may encourage people to get on the tram without a ticket.

"They should have someone on, even if it's just like an inspector-type thing.

"You've just got to give it a chance, like a probation period, but I am a bit wary about it."

There were also concerns about what powers staff would have when dealing with passengers who refused to pay.

They added: "People are still going to get on the tram, whether there is a conductor there or not, and not pay.

"The only way you can get money out of them is by calling the police."

However, the changes were seen as potentially making life easier for regular passengers who already have a valid ticket or travel pass.

"For people who are genuine, it's better because I can just get on the tram and that's it, rather than have a conductor come and show my card," they said.

They suggested unannounced inspections could prove more effective at catching fare dodgers, as passengers would not know when inspectors were going to board.

"If there isn't a conductor there, then they can be taken by surprise," they added. "That's what they'll be doing – taking them by surprise."