MSP left vexed at soaring bus fares

A hike in bus fares introduced this week has left one Msp“deeply frustrated”.

Last week we told how fares on First Midland services have increased by an average of 5.7 per cent since Sunday after the firm conducted a “comprehensive review”.

First Bus managing director Duncan Cameron said that the increase has been brought about as a reflection of“post-pandemic travel patterns”.

Now, Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell says he has been left“deeply frustrated”by the fare increase.

Mr Ruskell commented:“i’m deeply frustrated that First Bus have chosen to increase their fares across Stirling, and the rest of Scotland.

“We are facing one of the most acute cost of living crises of our generation. Now more than ever, it cannot be right for private bus companies to keep shunting costs onto passengers, particularly at a time where services are still not up to scratch in the region.

“With the gradual easing of Covid restrictions and the introduction of free bus travel for all under 22s, passenger numbers are going to be increasing. Despite this increase of money in First’s fare box, we’re still seeing last-minute cancellations of services and complete closure of lifeline routes, like the X53. And now passengers are landed with skyrocketing fares. It’s just not good enough.

“I am meeting First Bus early next month to talk about the urgent improvements needed to their services across Mid Scotland and Fife. If any of my constituents have experiences or views on First Bus’s service in the region, please get in touch with my constituency office.”

Last week we told how First Bus boss Mr Cameron said in a letter: “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.”

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.”