Low-cost bus ticket prices rise as scheme extends

The Affordable Fares scheme launched in July 2023

A discount travel scheme is being extended in Stoke-on-Trent, although fares are set to rise, mainly affecting under-18s.

The scheme delivered by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and local bus operators began in July 2023.

Rises for young people come into effect from Sunday, with some changes also made to adult fares.

The authority said the changes were being made to "make the most" of government funding that pays for the scheme.

The project is part of the authority's bus service improvement plan, which is being funded by £31.6m from the Department for Transport, and will now run until 31 March 2025.

Increased fares for adults include a £1.30 rise for a day ticket, and a £104 rise for an annual ticket.

Changes for under-18s include a £25 rise for three-month tickets, and a £178 jump for an annual pass.

"We’ve been talking to our local bus operators about how we can make the most of the government funding available to us and ensure we can offer passengers discounted fares for as long as possible," said councillor Gordon-McCusker.

“This will mean a price increase for some fares, the first price increase since the introduction of the Affordable Fares Scheme 15 months ago."

He said the authority was confident that the new prices were good value for money in comparison to neighbouring local authorities.

Adult ticket prices from Sunday 13 October:

• Adult day ticket - £4.80 (up from £3.50)

• Adult week ticket - £12 (no change)

• Adult month ticket - £42 (no change)

• Adult three-month ticket - £115 (no change)

• Adult year ticket - £504 (up from £400)

Young person's ticket prices from Sunday 13 October:

• Young person’s day ticket - £3.50 (up from £2)

• Young person’s week ticket – £9 (up from £7)

• Young person’s month ticket - £31.50 (up from £24)

• Young person’s three-month ticket - £85 (up from £60)

• Young person’s year ticket - £378 (up from £200)