Increase in bus fares across Forth Valley

Bus fares across the Forth Valley are set to rise from next week.

First Bus have confirmed tickets will be increased from 1st May, in line with inflation.

It means an average rise of 5.7% in most ticket prices across the Forth Valley.

The group say no fares will increase by more than 7%.

They've also introduced a number of new flexible tickets - and bus travel is free for under 22s.

Duncan Cameron, Managing Director of First Bus Scotland said: “The new pricing creates a simpler, fairer and more flexible choice of tickets. So whether you only travel on weekends, or are a ‘new normal’ commuter, our new tickets options reflect today’s real-world travel.

“These changes are essential to allow us to continue to deliver services across Falkirk and Stirlingshire for our customers. We have worked hard to keep any fare increases to a minimum – ensuring that no increase surpasses Consumer Price Inflation - and continue to offer customers the cheapest fares via the First Bus App.

“There’s never been a better time to make bus travel part of your everyday routine and we are confident that with these changes, we’ll see people in the local area choose bus over car as their preferred mode of travel, benefitting both the environment and their pockets.”