Stagecoach bus fares increased in Warwickshire

[dutchman]

Rising costs and a 74% Government hike in fuel tax on buses has forced up fares for passengers, Stagecoach confirmed today.



Fares in Warwickshire will rise by an average of 4.8% from 8th April. The rises compare with a 14% rise in the annual cost of motoring reported by the RAC in November 2011.

Stagecoach said today that the Government's 20% cut in Bus Service Operators Grant from 1 April, combined with the planned 3p fuel duty rise, would increase fuel tax on its bus passengers in England by 74%. In contrast, trains pay virtually no tax on their fuel and planes pay none at all.

Bus operators across England have also faced rising costs in other areas including increased labour, energy and insurance costs. The annual Cost Index, compiled by the Confederation of Passenger Transport before the fuel tax changes, shows operating costs in the 12 months to 31 December 2011 had already risen by 5%.

Steve Burd, Managing Director of Stagecoach Midlands, said: "These damaging Government cuts and tax hike, combined with rising costs, are having a direct impact on bus fares and services across England.

"We share the frustration of our passengers, some of whom are on low incomes. Along with businesses, they are already being squeezed by higher bills and energy prices.

"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. Our bus services continue to offer a greener, smarter and better value way to travel and we will also continue to re-invest the income from fares in improvements for passengers."

The new prices in Warwickshire:

All adult single fares between 70p & £1.35 will increase by 5p
Adult single & return fares between £1.40 & £2.50 increase by 10p
Adult single & return fares between £2.55 & £3.55 increase by 15p
Adult single & return fares between £3.60 & £4.95 increase by 20p
Adult single & return fares between £5 & £5.65 increase by 25p
Adult single & return fares between £5.70 & £7.30 increase by 30p

1 dayrider
Stratford - £3.30 will go up to £3.45
Warwick - £4.20 will go up to £4.40
Rugby - £4.20 will go up to £4.40
Nuneaton - £3.50 will go up to £3.65
Coventry - £3.60 will stay the same

7 day megarider
Nuneaton - £13.20 will increase to £13.85
Startford - £11.80 will increase to £12.35
Coventry – £11 will stay the same
Rugby - £12.90 will increase to £13.50
Warwick - £13.20 will increase to £13.85

1 dayrider GOLD – Warwickshire
£7.50 (£3.75 Sundays) will increase to £7.90 (£4 on Sundays)

7 day megarider GOLD - Warwickshire
£21 will increase to £22