'Insulting' - Tram passengers hit out at West Midlands Metro 2024 price hike

Tram prices in the West Midlands are set to rise in 2024, with some passengers hitting out at the decision on social media.

From January 2, fares are set to rise by an average of around five percent, which will remain below the rate of inflation. West Midlands Metro said it is 'committed to offering affordable travel for customers during the cost-of-living crisis'.

From the New Year, an adult Zone 1 day ticket, which covers Birmingham city centre, is set to increase by 20p to £3.20 before 9:30am. In other zones, the cost of a day ticket will rise by 10p to £3. An ‘all zones’ weekly ticket will cost £25.30, an increase of £1.20 over the 2023 price.

What's been said about the price hike?

Responding to the news on social media, some people criticised Transport for West Midlands' decision to increase fares.

One Twitter user, wrote: "A price increase is insulting with the cost of living crisis currently and also because the service is totally inconsistent and laughable most days. Times on app rarely correspond with the actual time a tram turns up, overcrowded, late and constant signal failures."

Another Twitter user said: "A price rise? Are you having a laugh with the current reliability? This is a real slap in the face." Another wrote: "One would expect a more consistent service with a price hike!"

West Midlands Metro statement

Michael Reading-Skilton, Metro’s Head of Commercial, said: “While other transport operators have significantly increased fares in recent years, we reduced some of ours, and implemented a ‘fares freeze in 2023. This has made a real difference to our customers while boosting the popularity of the tram network.

“As we gear up for further expansion customers will see an increase in service frequency and the number of trams in the fleet. This fare review supports our continued commitment to provide and deliver a reliable and sustainable service that offers one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel in the region.

"Our extensive range of multi-day, weekly and monthly passes continue to provide additional flexibility and great savings for regular customers, and the full range of options, together with details of the new prices, can be found on our website."