Stagecoach has announced updated ticket prices, set to take effect from Sunday, June 18.

The announcement brings a mix of news for bus commuters, with some fares rising to accommodate increased operational costs, while others are being reduced to provide customers with more affordable travel options.

One of the notable changes is the reduction in price for the widely used DayRider Gold ticket, which covers Stagecoach travel across Hampshire, Surrey, and West Sussex.

This ticket will see a decrease of £1.10, bringing the cost down to £8. 

READ MORE: Stagecoach announces major changes on Basingstoke routes – here's all you should know

In addition to the price adjustments, Stagecoach will be introducing new ticket options tailored specifically for young people.

Child Flexi5 Day bundles and four-week MegaRider tickets will be made available across the region, providing flexible and affordable travel choices for the younger population.

To provide a comprehensive overview of the ticket price changes, Stagecoach has outlined the key modifications as follows:

  • Single and Return ticket prices are unchanged, with Single fares capped at £2 under the Government’s national travel campaign.
  • DayRider tickets stay at similar or reduced prices.  Day tickets will be available for the first time in Bognor Regis, Chichester, Hayling Island and Waterlooville.
  • Nightrider tickets, offering unlimited bus travel after 7pm, rise by 20p to £3.
  • Flexi5 tickets offer best value to customers making occasional trips, saving 20 per cent on the cost of each DayRider 
  • MegaRider week and period tickets will see a price increase.  Xtra Direct Debit tickets remain best value for customers travelling every day.
  • GroupRider tickets are available for each travel zone, with any four people travelling together for the price of two.
  • New Flexi5 and four-week MegaRider tickets will be available for children under 16
  • StudentRider tickets are available for school children and Student ID holders, for each Term or a full academic year.

These revisions in ticket prices aim to strike a balance between covering the rising costs of bus operations and ensuring affordable travel options for passengers. Stagecoach remains committed to providing reliable and accessible transportation services for the local community.

SEE ALSO: Frazer Brabant case: Four men found guilty of murder in Basingstoke

Stagecoach South commercial director James O'Neill said he is confident the improved ticket range will help encourage people try the bus for the first time.

He said: "We’ve carefully reviewed our ticket offer this year, with so many new customers travelling under the government’s £2 Single campaign.  Our new ticket range will help support this promotion whilst offering a clearer choice for people travelling occasionally, frequently or together as a group.

“We know people are thinking carefully about the cost and environmental impact of car driving.  Bus travel remains fantastic value for money and it’s great to see so many residents coming out to support their local bus service.”

The government-funded £2 single bus fare cap remains in place until October 31, 2023, to help passengers with the cost of living.  The cap will rise to £2.50 from November 1, 2023 until November 30, 2024.

For more information about tickets and fares in your area, visit stagecoachbus.com.