Bus passengers are to feel a 5.7 per cent hike in fares across Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk after First Bus conducted a “comprehensive review”.
The soaring bus fares will come into effect from May 1.
First Bus managing director Duncan Cameron says that the increase has been brought about as a reflection of “post-pandemic travel patterns”.
In a letter, Mr Cameron said: ‘I am writing to inform you that with effect from May 1, 2022, First Midland is introducing a new pricing structure and ticket options, which better reflect post-pandemic travel patterns and offer customers greater flexibility when they travel by bus.
‘Following a comprehensive review of our fares and ticketing options, we have introduced a range of new flexible tickets. Not only will these new products enable customers to use tickets flexibly over a number of days, taking journeys that suit their new work, travel or caring patterns, but they will also help them save money.’
He added: ‘As with other sectors of the economy, we have faced a significant increase in running costs well above the rate of consumer price inflation to keep our buses operational. While customer footfall still has some way to go to get back to pre-pandemic levels, we are seeing a gradual return of passengers to our services. These fare changes are essential to allow us to continue to deliver services across Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire for our customers.’
Among the changes will be a new ‘mobile ticket’ options across First Midland zones. Available on the First Bus App, customers can spread a set number of journeys across seven and 28-day validity periods.
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The overhaul of First Midland ticketing options will see existing fares increase by an average of 5.7-per cent.
Mr Cameron continued: ‘With the newly designed fares suiting the swift rise of hybrid working and the end of the traditional five-day commute, customers are being offered journeys that are more cost-effective compared to previous prices. We have worked hard to keep any fare increases to a minimum – ensuring no increase surpasses consumer price inflation, and continue to offer customers the cheapest fares via the First Bus App.
‘First Midland is committed to maintaining and investing in our bus routes and fleets across the region. We’re continuing to work hard to recruit more drivers and ensure appropriate service frequencies are in place across the network. These fare changes will help us ensure that we can continue to meet customers’ needs in your area.
Following the announcement Bannockburn ward councillor, Alasdair Macpherson said: “I honestly don’t see how First Bus can justify such a dramatic increase in fares. This is going put further pressure on people on lower incomes.”
