I have had a prompt response from Simon Mathieson, the new Acting Director of National Express Dundee, to my questions and concerns about proposed bus fare increases in Dundee. He writes :
"My response to your comments is below:
a) In any fares increase there are some fares that will increase more than others. The 4+ stages fare is going to apply to a small percentage of journeys that are made. I would encourage people to look at switching to our range of Day tickets or Travecards that will provide better value. If you have specific journeys that you think are being treated unfairly then I would be happy to look at them on a case by case basis.
b) The Monthly Direct Debit fare did not increase in 2009 as an incentive for passengers to switch to this form of payment but we are not able to freeze this price this time around. Given the cost increases we have faced in 2010 and will face in 2011, such as fuel and insurance, we have had to increase prices. However, the Travelcard products do still offer great value.
c) The Evening Saver was used by around 0.5% of our passengers. Sales have been declining and so we have made the decision to simplify the day ticket range by offering just the Daysaver.
I appreciate that people are unhappy with the fares increase and will be working very hard for the people of Dundee to ensure that they receive a brilliant bus service."
In response, I have queried the effect of the 4+ stages increase on services serving the West End, such as the 5, 22 and 26, and also requested a meeting with National Express Dundee about the matter.