12.11.13
Below-inflation rises for Welsh season tickets
The January 2014 price rise for season tickets in Wales will be held below inflation (currently 3.1%), the Welsh government has announced.
It is also changing the maximum increase in any individual regulated fare on the Arriva Trains Wales network from RPI+6% to RPI+3%. Overall, regulated fares when averaged out cannot rise by more than RPI+1%.
Other measures have also been announced to simplify the fares system: a discounted multi-ticket purchase system will be introduced to enable more flexible travel; the zonal fares system in place on the Valley Lines network will be reviewed; and smart ticketing for mobile phones will be trialled on these services.
Transport minister Edwina Hart said: “Today’s announcement will help keep down the cost of rail fares and ensure consistency with increases in rail fares across the border. I am also pleased to announce we have agreed a range of measures with Arriva Trains Wales to make rail travel in Wales easier and more affordable.
“This demonstrates the Welsh government’s commitment to encouraging greater use of public transport to meet our aims of improving access to jobs and services and reducing reliance on the car to tackle carbon emissions.”
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