Student bus pass fees rise after 'budget strain'

2 hours ago

Phil Wilkinson JonesLocal Democracy Reporter

News image — Councillor Karl Perks says Worcestershire's student bus passes are cheaper than other neighbouring authorities

Worcestershire County Council Karl Perks, a bald man with a beard wearing a grey suit with white shirt and grey tie. He is positioned against a dark grey backdrop and is smiling for the photograph. — Councillor Karl Perks says Worcestershire's student bus passes are cheaper than other neighbouring authorities

The cost of some student bus passes is due to increase significantly from September, under plans by a local authority.

The price of a Severn Card, for students in Worcestershire aged 19 and under, will increase by between £124 and £240 per year.

The passes are valid 24 hours a day on any participating bus service. Some students aged under 16 are eligible for a free Severn Card, but others need to pay.

Council bosses have defended the move, saying the increased costs are still cheaper than similar passes in neighbouring authority areas.

In September, the cost of a Severn Card for Zone 1 will increase from £310 to £434, while a Zone 2 annual pass will go up from £495 to £693 and a yearly Zone 3 pass will rise from £600 to £800.

Termly passes will cost £153 for Zone 1, £245 for Zone 2 or £294 for Zone 3.

Half-termly passes are also available, as is the option to pay for a pass monthly via direct debit.

The county council said despite the price hike, Severn Cards would be cheaper than similar schemes in Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Shropshire.

They added that many authorities do not offer subsidised bus passes for students at all.

Karl Perks, cabinet member for highways and transport said it was not a service the council was legally required to provide.

"Home to School Transport budget has been under sustained pressure in recent years due to rising demand and increasing operating costs," he said.

"During that same period, charges for the Severn Card and vacant seat provision have only increased marginally, which has created a growing gap between the cost of delivering the service and the income received to support it."

He added: "The price change will contribute approximately £400,000 towards the cost of delivering the Home to School Transport service and helps ensure that the council can continue to support transport provision across the county."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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