Birmingham bus fare hikes branded 'frustrating' by West Midlands mayor and shows why we need public control

Richard Parker said the announcement on Friday (May 30) that prices were going up has proved his decision to move the current deregulated bus network to a franchise model.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) said increases were being brought in due to the rising costs faced by bus operators in the region.

The fare rise follows an independent review, instigated by bus operators, which recommended the 8.6 per cent increase, and which TfWM was required to introduce.

Earlier this month, Mr Parker signed a landmark agreement to bring buses back under public control for the first time in 40 years.

He said the bus franchising model with enable TfWM and regional leaders to set fares, routes and timetables.

The Mayor said: “I know this fare rise will frustrate people – and I share that frustration. It’s a decision taken by the operators. And it proves exactly why I’m franchising our buses.

“Under franchising, we’ll take back control – setting fares, choosing routes and putting passengers first.

“Monthly fares are among the lowest in the country for people who rely on buses every day.

“And I want to encourage people to continue to use our bus network. But I want a system that offers more than just value – it needs to be fair, reliable and under local control.

“That’s why I made the decision to press ahead with franchising. And with a Labour government, we’ll deliver a better bus network for the West Midlands.”

READ MORE: West Midlands hit by bus fare hike – here are the new prices you'll pay

Price rises are coming in for a range of tickets and passes including the four-week fare, used by those who commute on a daily basis, which will go up from £64 to £70 and the monthly direct debit fare rise from £59 to £64.

A TfWM spokesperson said these are cheaper than comparable fares in London (£94), Liverpool (£77.10), Manchester (£80) and Nottingham, at £75.

The cost of the day ticket will also increase by 40p to £5.20 while the single adult fare will go up from £2.90 to £3.

National Express West Midlands, the main bus operator in the region, said there were ‘great value’ tickets available to passengers, including a new 10 ticket bundle.

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A spokesperson said: “From 15th June regional bus fares will increase. This represents an annual fare increase due to the rising cost of maintaining the bus network, and has been agreed by Transport for West Midlands and all bus operators within the nBus zone.

“National Express West Midlands single adult fares will increase from £2.90 to £3, while single child fare remains unchanged at £1.50.

“A range of great value tickets are available to suit customers’ needs, including a new single 10-ticket bundle for £25 available on the mTicket app.

“Customers are advised to check www.nxbus.co.uk for more information.”