The first customers have used the new ‘pay later’ facility at the Tyne Tunnels, with great success.
The new system, which replaces debit and credit card payments was launched on 30 April.
Customers who are not signed up for the pre-pay ANPR scheme and who do not wish to pay by cash now have the option to press the ‘pay later’ button and receive an invoice which needs to be paid by midnight the following day.
There is no additional cost for paying later, on the condition that it is paid on time and in full.
Tyne Tunnels has updated its website and social media channels to include a video demonstrating how to use pay later, and full terms and conditions are available on the website.
The ‘pay later’ facility has been launched in order to minimise contact between customers and staff to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID 19.
Phil Smith, CEO of TT2 Limited, which operates the Tyne Tunnels, said: “The first customers have now used the ‘pay later’ button and it has worked very well. We have had many reports from customers that it is quick and easy to use and preferable to the previous system of manual card payment.
“As a responsible business, we have tried to reduce face to face interaction between staff and customers as much as possible, so introducing pay later, something we have had planned for a while, seemed like the right way to go.
“Customers are still welcome to pay using a pre-pay account or with cash, and we still have change machines on the plaza. We are now pleased to also offer ‘pay later’ to make life easier for our customers.”
On Twitter, one customer responded to the announcement of the new facility, saying: “Gotta say this is a brilliant idea to help staff stay safe but also users. Guarantee without fail I get stuck in the permit only lane behind someone without a permit!!”
Another customer added: “Fantastic development – thanks for all the hard work to get to this point!”