MP celebrates petition win as Stagecoach revises bus fare increase

North Devon MP, Ian Roome, is celebrating a victory for local bus passengers after a petition to reduce bus fare increases resulted in concessions from Stagecoach.

The recent decision by the Government to raise the single fare bus cap from £2 to £3 at the start of this year prompted further increases across North Devon. 

Among the most affected were pupils using the service to get to South Molton Community College, who faced a staggering increase of over 138 per cent, from £2.10 to £5.

In response, Ian Roome, the Liberal Democrat MP for North Devon, launched a petition to halt the fare increases and ensure public transport remains affordable. 

The petition, which garnered over 1,000 signatures in just 48 hours, highlighted the local community’s concerns about the sharp fare hikes, especially on the 155 route to South Molton Community College. 

The petition is still live and is rapidly approaching 1,500 signatures.

In light of the MP’s campaign, Stagecoach agreed to revise the Child’s Return fare to South Molton Community College. 

Effective from Monday, January 13, the fare was reduced to £3.20, aligning it with the government’s recent capped single fare increase.

Stagecoach explained that the fare revision was made to address the potential impact that the previous higher fare could have had on students’ educational opportunities, as emphasised by Mr Roome.

The MP has applauded the collective efforts of local residents in securing the revision.

Liberal Democrat MP for North Devon, Ian Roome, said: “Although £3.20 is still a significant rise, this is nonetheless a win for the people of North Devon, especially for the families with children attending South Molton Community College. It is refreshing to know that Stagecoach is listening to our collective voice. They have shown that fairness and community concerns cannot be ignored. Of course, there is still more to be done, but this is very welcome for passengers.”

“I want to say a big thank you to everyone who signed the petition and shared their stories. The campaign doesn’t stop here – I will continue to fight for affordable, reliable, and accessible public transport for our community, something much needed in our rural constituency!”

He also reminded residents to ensure they request the newly revised fare: “Make sure to ask for a “Child Return ticket to South Molton Community College – £3.20.”