Lothian Bus Fares To Rise in March

Submitted by edg on Wed, 22 Feb '12 9.04am

Travelling by bus just became a little less attractive an option after Lothian Buses, following the lead set by train companies,  announced that it will be increasing its ticket prices from 4th March by almost 10% for some tickets.

The rise is well above the rate of inflation (officially at 3.6%).

Ian Craig, Managing Director of Lothian Buses, said it was necessary due to "an extremely challenging time".

"As with the majority of public transport providers, we have had to review our prices as a result of Government funding cuts and rising operating costs. We know price increases are never welcome and this decision has not been taken lightly. It is however a necessary step to ensure we safeguard services as best we can and continue to invest in the quality of our operation and our environmental objectives," said Craig.

From 4th March an Adult Single will rise from £1.30 to £1.40.

The popular Adult DAYticket will rise from £3.20 to £3.50, a rise of almost 10%.

For those who use the Adult RIDACARD the Weekly ticket rises from £16 to £17 and the 4 Week RIDACARD will set people back an additional £3 as it rises from £48 to £51.

Direct Debit rises from £45.00 to £48.00 per month, and the annual ticket is up from £576 £612.

A book of 20 Adult CITYSINGLE tickets will now cost an additional £2, as they rise from £26 to £28 (book of 20 tickets).

Transport Scotland Young Persons Bus Concession Card holders single fare will be 90p.

On the plus side, Student, Child, AIRLINK and NIGHTBUSES fares are not affected by the ticket rise.