Tram operator given go-ahead to increase fines for fare dodgers

NOTTINGHAM'S tram operator has confirmed it will nearly double the fine issued to those travelling without a ticket as its boss hopes to stop people “playing the appeals game”.

- By OLIVER PRIDMORE

NET launched a zero-tolerance campaign on fare evasion in 2023 to reaffirm the message that travelling on the network without a valid ticket constitutes theft.

But the firm's boss has told the Post that fare evasion is still higher than he would like it to be - at between five and eight per cent.

The Department for Transport has now granted permission for NET to increase the cost of the fines it hands out to fare dodgers.

The Penalty Fare Notice (PFN) currently handed out means people have to pay £70 within 22 days and, if this is repeatedly ignored, the case could end up going to court, with a maximum fine of £1,000.