Four per cent rise in bus fares
Published 27 Apr 2012 08:35
3 Comments
RISING costs and a Government hike in fuel tax has seen Stagecoach increase fares across Fife by an average of four per cent.
Stagecoach said the UK Government's planned 3p fuel duty rise, combined with the Scottish Government's changes to the Bus Service Operators Grant from 1st April, would increase fuel tax on its bus passengers in Scotland by 32 per cent.
Price rises will include the Local Town Megarider+ going up from £16.50 to £17.50, the Fife Megarider+ will increase from £24 to £25 and the East Scotland Megarider from £36 to £37.50. The price rises took effect from Monday.
Managing director of Stagecoach East Scotland, Charlie Mullen, said, "These damaging Government tax hikes, combined with rising costs, are having a direct impact on bus fares and services across Scotland.
"We share the frustration of our passengers, many of whom are on some of the lowest incomes. Along with businesses, they are already being squeezed by higher bills.
"We have had to take some very tough decisions but we have worked hard to keep fares down for those who rely on the bus the most."
Stagecoach has increased the number of vehicles that operate on the route of their 19 service following the results of a customer survey.
They conducted interviews with passengers on board the 19 bus to assess various aspects of the service.
The decision to introduce an additional vehicle was taken after customers raised concerns regarding the reliability of the service at Ballingry.
Stagecoach hopes that the addition of the vehicle will improve both punctuality and reliability.
Operations director of Stagecoach East Scotland, Sarah Longair, said, "Stagecoach is committed to providing good quality, value-for-money bus services to meet the needs of people throughout Fife.
"We realise that there were issues with the 19 service and we're now in the process of trying to fix them.
"The timetable change, which took effect from the 27th February, should make a real difference to the dependability of this service."
Have your say. Post a comment on this article.
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Mikeintheknow
37 posts
Apr 27, 12:42
Report comment£10.50 to go around the whole of Dunfermline for a week is still Cheaper than the car! BUT those awful roadworks have not helped and really the amount of stupid car drivers do not help!
Recommend?
Yes 6
No 3
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SwiperTheFox
14 posts
Apr 28, 22:52
Report comment£10.50 for a week is great if you're a regular bus user, but several quid to go a short distance on the odd occasion is a bit steep.
Recommend? Yes 6
No 0
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******
Apr 30, 12:53
Report commentThis comment has been removed by a moderator
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maclam
317 posts
May 2, 14:02
Report comment£3 for 15 minutes on a bus , what a bargain ?
Recommend? Yes 1
No 2
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