Dartmoor families hit by unexpected rises in bus fares

Dartmoor residents fear being left isolated as bus fares rise across rural Devon. Local councillors are calling on the Government to step in and protect these vital services.

Devon County Council has urged ministers to recognise the “unique challenges” of delivering public transport in large rural counties, after parents reported being caught off guard by Stagecoach’s recent fare increases. 

Some families said they and their children’s schools only learned of the changes on the day they took effect, leaving some students struggling to afford journeys home. Post-16 students travelling from rural Dartmoor villages to colleges are among those hardest hit.

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Senior councillors met Stagecoach South West Managing Director Peter Knight this week to raise local concerns. 

He admitted services are costly to run in areas like Dartmoor, with long routes between villages, low passenger numbers, and rising operating costs. However, he committed to review travel zones and ticket options to improve affordability for young people.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Cabinet Member for Public Transport, said buses are “a lifeline” for Dartmoor residents.

“For many people without access to a car, buses provide the only link to schools, jobs, shops and health services,” she said.

 “The Government must recognise the importance of investment so that rural families aren’t left stranded.”

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, echoed that message, warning that without reform, residents risk being “increasingly isolated.”

Both the Council and Stagecoach have agreed to work closely together, alongside Devon’s MPs, to press for fairer funding for rural transport.

Councillor Michael Fife Cook, Leader of the Reform Group, has said that “Our government is mandated to provide an education for future generations, but that doesn’t mean they are required to make it affordable for the less fortunate.”