Combined Authority denounces Stagecoach’s planned fare increases

Combined Authority denounces Stagecoach’s planned fare increases

The Combined Authority is absolutely appalled by the unilateral decision of Stagecoach to put up their fares when they are already failing to deliver on their published schedules, and with last minute cancellations of buses leaving passengers stranded in extreme winter weather. Whilst we recognise that, as a commercial organisation, they can put their prices up whenever they choose, we are shocked that Stagecoach did not consult with the Combined Authority in taking this course of action.

Speaking of the decision, Deputy Mayor of the Combined Authority, Councillor Anna Smith said, “It beggars belief that Stagecoach would choose to not only raise bus fares during one of the worst cost of living crises we’ve seen in recent years, but to also announce this just before Christmas. We know how important buses are to our communities, and what a lifeline they are to help people to get to work, school, supermarkets and hospitals. A decision like this, by an organisation that posted notice of significant profits this year, is nothing short of appalling. At the Combined Authority we will continue to investigate all of the various options available to us to raise vital funds for our bus network, as well as continuing to work closely with our partners, lobbying the Government and calling out callous decisions by commercial operators whenever they happen.”