Bus fares have this week increased by up to 25 pence in the Burnham-On-Sea area following the introduction of an annual price hike by transport operator First.
The firm said fares have risen to reflect a jump in its operating costs, which includes fuel.
Most single and return tickets have gone up by between 5p and 25p but some have been frozen. The cost of some season tickets will also rise.
First’s Marc Reddy, regional commercial and business growth director, said: “We understand it that no one likes it when fares go up and we have done everything we can to keep any increases to the absolute minimum. We are also committed to only reviewing fares once a year, the last time being a year ago.”
“Fare reviews are necessary because they ensure that the price of travel adequately reflects the amount it costs for us to run the buses, while also ensuring that we make enough profit to be able to be able to invest in our networks, staff and the vehicles we operate.”
“We believe that our season tickets continue to offer good value for money, allowing customers to enjoy unlimited travel within specific areas for relatively little.”
“These products are ideal for those people who travel a lot by bus and who wish to make the greatest saving on travel costs. For instance it is possible for customers to enjoy unlimited travel in Bath, Bridgwater or Taunton for the equivalent of just £1.91 a day, or across the whole region for just £3.10 a day.”
“To help people enjoy the biggest savings on bus travel we also give them the option to pay for annual bus tickets by direct debit and similarly offer discounts for companies who wish to sign up to our corporate travel club in order to access cheaper travel options for their own employees.”
