Stagecoach Bluebird to set a 12 per cent hike in fares for north-east passengers
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Bus operator Stagecoach Bluebird is set to raise its fares by an average of 12 per cent across its network from the start of April it has been announced.
David Beaton, Managing Director of Stagecoach Bluebird said: “With operating costs continuing to rise, we will be making changes to our fares from April 2 to prioritise investment in our people, our fleet and our customers.
"We understand the cost-of-living pressures our customers face, and we realise that fare increases are not welcome however, we strongly believe our fares still represent good value for money.
"Our business has encountered several challenges including the global Covid 19 pandemic, industry-wide recruitment shortages, and rising costs.
"The cost-of-living crisis has impacted businesses too and there have been significant increases to our three largest costs – wages, fuel, and engineering parts."
He continued: "As we look to the future, we want to continue to invest in our people, our fleet, including an increase of zero-emission buses and technology to improve the customer experience.
"Our priorities and focus will remain on securing and rebuilding networks where possible and taking positive steps toward achieving our vision for decarbonisation.
"All of this is vital to support the country's green recovery and meet our own net-zero ambitions while supporting the policies set out by the Scottish Government and Local Authority Stakeholders.
"With bus user numbers still not returned to the pre-pandemic level, it is vital that as commercial bus operators, we make decisions that will future-proof the viability of our network for our customers and colleagues.
"The emergency funding provided by the Scottish Government to ensure a level of bus service for people to access local amenities, which would not have been commercially sustainable has been reduced over the past 12 months and from March 31 will be withdrawn altogether.
"As a result of this change, from Sunday, April 2, all fares will increase by an average of 12 per cent across all bus services operated by Bluebird.
To find the best value fare, please download the Stagecoach Bus app or visit stagecoachbus.com/tickets.
Tickets include single, return, day travel, fully flexible bundles, and weekly and longer-term options depending on your travel habits.
The following fares will be introduced by Stagecoach Bluebird -
All young people and children aged 5-21 years living in Scotland can apply for a free bus travel card to access the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme.
If you are over 60 or have a disability, you could be eligible for free bus travel to get around Scotland and your local area. You can access this via the National Entitlement Card, your pass to free bus travel in Scotland.
The National Entitlement Card scheme also allows for free travel for companions where required by eligible disabled people of any age (including children under 5)
