‘Damaging tax hike’ means an increase on your bus fares

This has caused frustration amongst customers and bus operators, who said their hands are tied by Government legislation.

Stagecoach has announced that due to rising costs and an increase in fuel tax on buses, it has had no choice but to increase its fares.

The Government introduced a 20 per cent cut in Bus Service Operators Grant from the start of this month, which combined with the planned three pence fuel duty rise, had increased fuel tax on Stagecoach passengers in England by 74 per cent.

Operators across the country have also had to compete with increased labour, energy and insurance costs.

Steve Burd, managing director of Stagecoach Midlands, said: “These damaging Government cuts and tax hike, combined with rising costs, are having a direct impact on bus fares and services across England.

“We share the frustration of our passengers, some of whom are on low incomes.

“Along with businesses, they are already being squeezed by higher bills and energy prices.

“We have had to take some very tough decisions, but we have worked hard to keep fares down for those who rely on the bus the most.

“Our bus services continue to offer a greener, smarter and better value way to travel and we will also continue to reinvest the income from fares in improvements for passengers.”

The fare increases:

Fares between 70p and £1.35 will rise by 5p

• Fares between £1.40 and £2.50 will rise by 10p

• Fares between £2.55 and £3.55 will rise by 15p

• Fares between £3.60 and £4.95 will rise by 20p

• Fares between £5.00 and £5.65 will rise by 25p

• Fares between £5.70 and £7.30 will rise by 30p