A recent decline in bus passenger numbers across the West Midlands has raised concerns among local councillors and transport officials. Data presented to the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Transport Delivery Overview and Scrutiny Committee revealed a significant reduction in bus journeys during the third quarter (October to December) of the 2025/26 fiscal year.
Dudley councillor David Stanley expressed his disappointment with the figures, highlighting a 5.9% decrease in bus boardings—from 63.74 million the previous year to 59.99 million this year. He cited the sharp rise in the national bus fare cap, which increased single fares from £2 in December 2024 to £3 in January 2025, as a major factor discouraging bus use.
Compounding the challenge for bus operators is the surge in fuel costs driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Councillor Stanley warned that this could further strain the sector, making it harder for bus companies to maintain services amid declining passenger numbers. “The increase in fuel prices and bus fares is a deterrent rather than an encouragement to use public transport,” he said.
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Meanwhile, Midland Metro services experienced a modest 1.6% decrease in boardings, falling from 2.49 million to 2.45 million in the same period. In contrast, rail travel showed positive growth, with a 3.7% increase in passenger numbers, rising to 67.12 million boardings compared to 64.7 million the previous year.
Steve Hayes, Head of Bus Franchising Transition at Transport for West Midlands, acknowledged the dual impact of fuel price hikes and fare adjustments on operating costs. He stressed that these factors are being carefully considered during the ongoing transition to bus franchising. Hayes also confirmed that funding support continues through grant schemes, with negotiations underway for additional financial aid to sustain the network.
To counter falling passenger numbers, Hayes mentioned efforts to introduce passenger incentive schemes aimed at boosting public transport usage across the region. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make public transit more attractive and affordable despite ongoing economic challenges.