Blow to West Midlands bus passengers as fares rise for single, day, and monthly tickets

Bus fares are on the rise again across the West Midlands.

From this weekend, passengers will pay more for single tickets, day passes and monthly travel.

While operators blame rising costs, the Mayor says it's a sign the system isn't working - and that change is coming.

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Our reporter Richard Gullick has the details, including how the increases compare to other UK cities and what they could mean for commuters already feeling the pinch

From Sunday, a standard adult single fare will increase by ten pence, reaching £3.

A day ticket goes from £4.80 to £5.20.

And the four-week pass - used by many who rely on buses for work- rises from £64 to £70.

The increase follows an independent review, initiated by the bus operators themselves, who say rising fuel and wage costs have left them with little choice.

Transport for West Midlands emphasises that our prices are still cheaper than many major cities.

In London, the equivalent monthly pass costs £94. In Manchester, it's £80.

Here, a direct debit pass will now be £64.

But many commuters aren't comparing spreadsheets--they're just trying to afford the week ahead.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker has called the fare rise "frustrating," and says it strengthens his case for change.

He's planning to shift the region's bus system to a franchised model - similar to what's used in London - where leaders choose routes, set prices, and decide how services run.

National Express West Midlands, the biggest operator in the area, says good-value options still exist. But critics argue that's only useful for occasional riders.

For those with long commutes or multiple changes, the new costs add up quickly.

For many on low incomes, working unpredictable hours or living further from city centres, buses aren't a choice--they're a lifeline.

And with costs rising faster than wages, there's a growing question--how much longer can people afford to keep going?--

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