PUBLIC transport users in Basildon have called for an Oyster Card style ticket system to be introduced.

Basildon Council and the Basildon Bus Forum has submitted its response to Essex County Council’s bus transport strategy consultation.

The group stated passengers would be more attracted to bus transport if services were more reliable and stopped at key employment sites.

Integrating bus and rail services, such as with an Oyster Card system, was also seen as a way of encouraging more passengers.

The council also believe better concession fares should be offered for children and young people.

Across Basildon borough, 21.5 per cent of children live in poverty, of which 60 per cent live in households where the income is below £13,200 per year.

Richard Moore, borough councillor responsible for planning and regeneration, said: “We want to be working with the Essex County Council more proactively on the bus provision for the borough to ensure it is operating to the benefit of our residents.

“We also feel there should be a bus route operating at peak times which enables better access to the A127 Enterprise Corridor to better serve the business corridor with options other than the private motor vehicle.”

Basildon Bus Forum chairman Stephen Hillier said: “We hope that some outcomes can be reached that benefit borough residents who use public transport as well as encourage those who currently do not to give it a try.

“We believe a review of bus routes should take place at a local level with local authorities to see if opportunities exist to expand or change the routes to improve patronage and convenience for those travelling by bus.”