LONG-awaited “tap and go” contactless payments will be rolled out across the c2c line next month, bosses have confirmed.

In a bid to cut queues at stations and speed up journeys for commuters, c2c has been working on the new payment method for the last year and it will now be in operation at all stations from September 22.

Frustrated customers have regularly complained about broken ticket machines as well as issues with smartcards and mobile apps.

Bosses are confident the new “tap and go” system will relieve many of the issues and will be ready to go after rigorous testing.

Rob Mullen, managing director at c2c, said he was pleased to see the system implemented across their network.

He said: “Following months of rigorous behind-the-scenes technical and operational testing, I am delighted that work to introduce pay as you go with contactless has now been completed and will launch across our entire network next month.

“We know that our customers want a wide range of accessible ticketing and payment options and pay as you go with contactless offers a fast and flexible way for them to access c2c services, and also those within the London Travelcard and wider pay as you go area, while removing the need to book travel in advance or spend time queuing at ticket machines.”

The rail company confirmed pay as you go with contactless is available during both peak and off-peak times to all customers.

Contactless will be accepted at the following stations from September 22: Tilbury Town, East Tilbury, Stanford-le-Hope, West Horndon, Laindon, Basildon, Pitsea, Benfleet, Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff, Southend Central, Southend East, Thorpe Bay and Shoebury.

Mr Mullen added: “At c2c, we remain fully committed to providing a safe and accessible railway for all, and I firmly believe that the introduction of pay as you go with contactless – giving customers greater choice, flexibility and simple and easy to understand ticketing and payment options – will make travelling with c2c quicker, more convenient and easier than ever before.”

To find out more information, visit c2c-online.co.uk/tickets-and-fares/digital-tickets/contactless/.