Hampshire

Southampton Fare changes for 14 June 2009

Southampton Fare changes for 14 June 2009

Taking into account fluctuations in its operating costs First in Hampshire and Dorset is revising some bus fares across its Southampton network effective as of 14 June 2009.

In Southampton, the fare structure has been simplified. Fare stages have been widened meaning that the company will now offer nine different single fares, rather than the 35 that previously existed. This means that many people will actually see the price of their bus travel reduce (25 bus fares are either being frozen or reduced), while a small number (10) will increase slightly. In addition the company is also introducing a maximum single fare of £1.40 for journeys between Portswood and Southampton City Centre valid on services 3, 7, 7A and 14; this is a reduction of up to 10p on previous prices.

Richard Soper, Managing Director, First in Hampshire & Dorset, explains: "We want people to continue to use the bus to travel for work and pleasure so we have taken some steps to simplify our fare structure in Southampton; this should make traveling in the city easier.

"We know that nobody likes it when prices go up so we have worked hard to keep increases as small as possible, freezing, or reducing, as many fares as we are able to. Season tickets have been affected by this review, but we still believe that they offer good value for money, allowing unlimited travel for as little as £1.04 per day.

"Despite the tough economic climate, we are continuing to invest in our fleet in Southampton. Since the beginning of the year we have introduced four brand new buses onto Service 16 in the city at a cost of £500,000.'

For more information about the changes pop into our Travel Shop at Pound Tree Road, Southampton or call customer services on: 0870 010 6022.

Journalists wanting more information regarding the fare review should contact: Karen Baxter, PR Manager (South West & Wales), First UK Bus at karen.baxter@firstgroup.com