West Midlands Mayor Expresses Disappointment Over Bus Fare Hike

The West Midlands Mayor has voiced his disappointment regarding the upcoming increase in National Express bus fares within his jurisdiction. The company has confirmed that these fares will rise by 90p starting January 5, making an adult single ticket cost £2.90. This decision by National Express follows the government’s announcement that the national fare cap would be adjusted from £2 to £3. However, National Express stated that the prices for its other ticket types and passes will not be affected. National Express operates bus services across Wolverhampton, Coventry, and Birmingham. The Labour mayor, who assumed office last May, confirmed that the prices for weekly and monthly passes, which fall under the purview of his office through Transport for West Midlands, will be maintained at their existing rates. He further stated: “Bringing buses back into public control through franchising is one of my key commitments.” “It will allow us to set fares for everyone and keep them at the lowest possible level, benefiting every commuter across the West Midlands.” In response, National Express West Midlands asserted that it continues to be “providing a range of great value tickets and passes.” The Local Democracy Reporting Service, which reports on councils and other public service bodies, collected this information. For more updates, follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.