First Capital Connect has launched new automatic ticket gates at Stevenage station.

The ticket gates will help to improve security at the station and on trains by deterring crime and vandalism. The gates ensure that customers who have purchased the correct ticket for travel will no longer be subsidising those who have not.

The automatic ticket gates were officially launchedon 19 December 2006 at Stevenage station by Elaine Holt, Managing Director, First Capital Connect, Willie McCafferty, Chief Superintendent, British Transport Police and Kerry Williamson of Passenger Focus*.

Elaine Holt, Managing Director, First Capital Connect, said: “Those who travel on the railway without valid tickets cost the industry £200m every year. Since taking over the franchise in April, we have made real efforts to reduce ticketless travel across our network and have seen some very positive results. “The introduction of the automatic ticket gates is a natural progression of this work. Stevenage is the first of 14 stations to have automatic ticket gates installed.”

Willie McCafferty, Chief Superintendent, British Transport Police, said: “The British Transport Police is delighted to support First Capital Connect with the introduction of the automatic ticket barriers. Experience demonstrates that ticket gates really have a positive impact of reducing crime and disorder.”

Kerry Williamson of Passenger Focus said: “From a customer perspective, we fully support any improvements to stations that will ensure the train operating companies collect revenue that is due to them and pass this on to customers through improved facilities.”

The new ticket gates at Stevenage include one wide aisle, which allows extra space for customers with bicycles, luggage, pushchairs or extra bags to pass through easily.