As reported in yesterday's Courier and Evening Telegraph, I have highlighted my concerns about the hike in National Express Dundee bus fares due to take place at the weekend, pointing out that these are well-above inflation and fail to recognise the government’s cancellation of the fuel duty increase that had originally been planned for the New Year.
I highlighted that the bus fares hike in Dundee is significantly above other price rises – the adult daysaver ticket increase to £3.40 (20p increase) is an increase of 6.25%. The latest consumer prices index figures released by the Office of National Statistics on 18th December show CPI inflation at just 2.7%.
Speaking with West End constituents, it is clear that there is concern about the level of National Express Dundee’s bus fares increase. Whilst those with concessionary passes will obviously not be subject to the fares increase, it will particularly adversely impact on working age adults who are on a low income.
Dundee has a lower level of car ownership than average and very many Dundonians rely on local bus services. The level of the bus fare hike is disappointing and I am meeting the Managing Director of National Express Dundee early next week to discuss the issue.
I have also asked if the bus company will consider some form of fares concession to those Dundonians who are on low incomes and aim to discuss this and a number of West End bus service issues at next week's meeting.