Disappointment over fare increases

Bus passengers are ‘concerned’ and ‘disappointed’ that some tickets in East Sussex will cost more from next month.

East Sussex County Council said it had to ‘prioritise subsidies to bus services over subsidised fares’ after a reduction to a government grant for improving services.

A nationwide £3 cap on single fares will remain, but Eastbourne Area Bus User Group (EABUG) said it was disappointed some other fares would increase.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said its funding was giving councils the opportunity to lower fares, open new routes, and improve infrastructure.