Isle of Wight Council concerned about impact of rising bus prices

After its running costs significantly increased, the Island bus provider reviewed the cost of its fares, resulting in a price rise for some tickets.

Examples of increased prices include the child fare ‘medium hop’, which has risen from £1.90 to £2.10, the adult 48-hour rover up from £16.50 to £17.50 and the adult 30-day multi bundle increased from £117 to £130.

• Read more: Southern Vectis 'reluctantly' increases ticket prices again amid rising costs

A statement given to the County Press from the council is as follows: "Whilst this is wholly a commercial decision implemented by Southern Vectis due to current financial pressures on the operation, we have expressed our concerns about the impact on residents who rely upon public transport to access education, employment or medical appointments, especially given the current economic climate."

See more about the price rise in the link above (Image: Newsquest/Canva)

The council says it will continue to work in partnership with Southern Vectis and is awaiting guidance on the government’s previous announcement regarding a £2 flat fare scheme for bus travel for January to the end of March 2023.

Cllr Karl Love, cabinet member for adult social care and public health, told the County Press: “Southern Vectis are not immune to the rising cost of fuel and energy. They are one of many businesses where rising costs will result in them passing the increases along to their customers.

“However, having an affordable and accessible service for all to use is really important to Island people. We need to encourage new routes, growing the service provision and increasing accessibility.

“In these difficult and testing times where every penny counts for thousands of families, increasing bus fares do nothing to help reassure, regenerate, and inspire our communities to use public transport.

“We must do what we can to support each other and ensure the government supports our Island with the £2 cap on bus fares.”

Cllr Phil Jordan, cabinet member for infrastructure, highways PFI and transport, said: “These commercial decisions are made outside of the control of the council. 

“It is understood that operating costs are increasing, but I also have great concerns for those who use buses to travel around our Island, especially those less well-off and with severe financial challenges to meet over the coming winter.  

“They will be hard-pressed to pay for increased travel costs, and whilst I understand the financial predicament brought about by the chaotic government situation, I am disappointed for our Island residents who rely on buses for their vital travel.

“I also hope and trust the government promised £2 flat fare scheme is brought into operation without further delays.”