Bus passengers are to feel a 5.7 per cent hike in fares across Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk after First Bus conducted a “comprehensive review”.The soaring bus fares will come into effect from May 1.First Bus managing director Duncan Cameron says that the increase has been brought about as a reflection of “post-pandemic travel patterns”.In a letter, Mr Cameron said: ‘I am writing to inform you that with effect from May 1, 2022, First Midland is introducing a new pricing structure and ticket options, which better reflect post-pandemic travel patterns and offer customers greater flexibility when they travel by bus.‘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.’Among the changes will be a new ‘mobile ticket’ options across First Midland zones.
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