Bus fare rise cut back in Annual Plan

The bus fare rise of 10% signalled in Environment Canterbury’s draft Annual Plan two months ago has been cut back to an average fare rise of just 2.5%. This includes the Diamond Harbour Ferry.

“Commissioners took onboard the community’s response to the proposed fare rise,” said Commissioner David Bedford. “The figure of 2.5% is even lower than the 5% rise we included in our Long-Term Plan last year but never introduced.”

Feedback on the proposed changes signalled in the 2016 draft Annual Plan came in from 119 people. About two-thirds of them commented on the proposal to increase bus fares by 10%. This proposal was the Council’s initial response to a funding shortfall linked to bus patronage.

“We’ve taken this feedback to heart and will increase fares by an average of only 2.5%. The balance of the shortfall in operational funding will come from targeted rates,” Mr Bedford said.

Detail on the timing and exact fares for bus users will be released in advance of the fare rises coming into effect in July.

In addition to the specific feedback about bus fares a broader range of comments about passenger transport were also received. This is valuable feedback which will be considered by staff when planning and reviewing Metro services.

Feedback was also received on the Council’s performance in the water management area.

“Implementing the Canterbury Water Management Strategy is the Council’s top priority. This Annual Plan continues to fund the implementation of the plans and rules that will ensure water quality improves in the future,” Mr Bedford says. “It also funds the development and implementation of the programmes created by the region’s 10 zone committees.”

The Council approves the Annual Plan on 23 June 2016.

ENDS

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