Bus passengers across the West Midlands will see fare increases from this Sunday, as the cost of travel is set to go up across the network.
From 16 June, the standard adult single fare will rise by 10p to £3. Day tickets will increase from £4.80 to £5.20. For regular commuters, the four-week travel pass will jump from £64 to £70, while those paying by monthly direct debit will now pay £64 instead of £59.
The 8.6% hike follows an independent review commissioned by bus operators, which Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) is required to implement. Operators have pointed to rising operational costs as the reason behind the changes.
A TfWM spokesperson defended the new prices, noting that four-week passes in the West Midlands still offer better value than in other major cities – including London (£94), Liverpool (£77.10), Manchester (£80), and Nottingham (£75).
National Express West Midlands, the region’s largest bus company, said it continues to offer “great value” options, including a new bundle of 10 single tickets for £25.
However, the price hike has drawn criticism from West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker. He reiterated his commitment to reforming the region’s bus system under a franchising model.
“I know this fare rise will frustrate people – and I share that frustration,” he said. “This decision was made by private operators, and it reinforces exactly why I’m taking steps to franchise our buses. Under that model, we’ll bring decisions on fares and routes back under public control – putting passengers first.”