Bus Passengers Face Costly Start to 2025 with 50% Fare Hike
Bus fares in England have surged by 50%, raising concerns for millions of passengers as they brace for a costly start to 2025
Bus Fares, England, Transport, Government, Public Transport
England: Millions of bus passengers are feeling the pinch as single fares jump from £2 to £3. This change is the first fare cap increase in two years, and it’s set to stick around until the end of 2025.
The Department for Transport says this move could save passengers up to 80% on some routes. But for many, it’s a tough start to the new year.
Silviya Barrett from Campaign for Better Transport expressed concern, saying this fare hike will hit many people hard. Buses are the most popular public transport, so keeping them affordable is crucial.
After the Chancellor’s Budget announcement, a government source mentioned that maintaining a fare cap was a hard-fought win, especially for rural passengers. They also noted that keeping the cap at £2 wasn’t financially sustainable.
Local transport authorities can still keep fares lower if they choose to subsidize them. For instance, Greater Manchester plans to keep its fares at £2 for all of 2025, pending a review.
In West Yorkshire, fares will rise to £2.50 after March. The DfT shared examples showing how the £3 cap can save passengers significant amounts on longer journeys.
To support this cap, the government is putting in over £150 million in 2025, on top of a previous £955 million to help bus services until 2026.
Local transport minister Simon Lightwood emphasized the importance of buses for communities and the economy. He reassured that the government is committed to keeping fares as low as possible.
Alison Edwards from the Confederation of Passenger Transport acknowledged the concerns but pointed out that most bus riders will still pay less than £3 per trip. Many regular commuters use season tickets, which are cheaper.
Despite the fare increase, the DfT noted that buses have been in decline for nearly four decades, with many services cut. Local authorities are under pressure, and the total distance traveled by buses has dropped significantly since before the pandemic.
There’s a call for a more streamlined approach to bus funding, which could give councils better control over services and spending.