Disappointment in Portsmouth at hike to bus fare cap

First Bus, Stagecoach, and the leader of Portsmouth City Council have weighed in on the government’s “hugely disappointing” decision to raise the bus fare cap.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister announced that the cap on single bus fares, which previously limited tickets to under £2, will increase to £3.

This fare rise is set to feature in Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Budget today (Wednesday 30th), as the Government seeks to address a £22bn “black hole” in public finances.

Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, criticised the decision, stating:

"There was a real opportunity for the government to not allow it to go as far as £3; I think £2.50 would have psychologically kept everyone on board.

"The cheaper fares have driven up our bus use—going to £3 potentially jeopardises that, so it’s hugely disappointing."

When asked if the fare increase might impact bus use across the city, he added: “It could do, it would be a great shame because there’s a huge amount of effort gone into making sure we’ve had the largest increase in bus usage.”

In February, Department for Transport data revealed a 22.3 per cent rise in bus passengers in Portsmouth over the previous year, making the city the best improving in the UK for bus use following the COVID-19 pandemic.

First Bus, which operates in Portsmouth, Fareham, and Gosport, expressed relief that the Government had not removed the cap altogether, saying it is “pleased” with the decision.

"Avoiding a sudden change is important to help those customers using longer routes," it said.

When asked if First Bus had considered discounts or support programmes for those most affected, it responded:

"We’re still waiting for the full details in tomorrow’s budget, but in the longer term, Government should consider continuing fare support to help those who need it the most.

“We believe fare support should be targeted at young people to support lifelong bus use. By focusing Government support in this way, it would help those on lower incomes to access education and employment, and encourage the bus users of the future.”

A spokesperson for Stagecoach, another city bus operator, added:

"We acknowledge the Government’s announcement of a new £3 bus fare cap and welcome the clarity it provides.

"We look forward to working with the Government to understand the details of the new scheme in the coming days and weeks. Our goal remains to provide reliable and affordable transport options that benefit our communities."