Bus fares set to triple for children in Exeter

Bus travel for children in Exeter and Exmouth will triple at the end of April astransport provider Stagecoach scraps ‘add on’ tickets.

These tickets can purchased alongside adult fares at a reduced charge.

From 29 April families will no longer be able to purchase the £1 ‘add on’ ticket, and children will need to use £3 Dayrider tickets or single fares instead.

The announcement by Stagecoach has caused anger and a petition has beensigned by more than 1,200 people calling for the “huge bus fare rises” to be stopped.

There will be a number of changes to bus prices in Exeter and Exmouth, with adult Dayrider tickets rising from £3.90 to £4.

Before 29 April an adult travelling with a child will pay £4.90 for a day pass, but this will go up to £7 after that date – representing a 43% increase.

Campaigners say this change will have a serious impact upon many families, especially single parents and the least well-off.

People are also upset by the lack of consultation as Stagecoach failed to make Devon County Council aware of the decision before the announcement.

Stagecoach has been approached for further comment. A full list of fare changes can be seen here: