Bus users in Portsmouth have reason to celebrate as the city unveils a range of new bus tickets, for both First and Stagecoach buses, that promise to make bus travel more convenient and accessible to all.
Effective from the 11 February, three new bus tickets are available to people travelling alone or as part of a group, people travelling at night, or people that want a ticket for multiple journeys over 90 minutes. These tickets have been developed in partnership with local bus companies, First Solent and Stagecoach South, and passengers can use them to travel on all the city’s buses.
The new tickets include:
• Pompey Hoppa90 – an individual ticket that is valid for 90 minutes of bus travel. Costing just £3, the ticket is activated when people start their first journey.
• Pompey Group – a day ticket for unlimited travel, for up to five people, that costs £12.50.
• Pompey Night Owl – an individual ticket that is available from 7pm and can be used until 4am.
The tickets will be available on all bus routes within the city, with the aim of providing an easy option for every occasion. Designed to help everyone to get to and from work, around the city, and to support the night-time economy. All tickets can be used on both First and Stagecoach buses and can be purchased on both the Stagecoach and First bus apps, or directly from the bus driver.
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “I’m thrilled that we have been able to release this new range of bus tickets by working with our local bus companies. Our residents have been asking for bus tickets that can be used on all local buses and all the tickets in this range can do just that. These tickets are convenient, and good for the city’s passengers.
“These tickets also compliment the enhancements we have made recently to bus services including two 24/7 routes, and more frequent buses at evenings and weekends.”
James O’Neill, Commercial Director for Stagecoach South said: “We’re proud to give more people the opportunity to access affordable and environmentally friendly travel in partnership with Portsmouth City Council. Buses provide vital links for the city with our fast and frequent services – including new evening, weekend and 24/7 timetables starting this month. There’s never been a better time to try the bus in Portsmouth.”
James Eustace, Commercial Director at First Solent, added: “With this range of new tickets to help people save money, increased bus services, and electric vehicles about to join our fleet, now is the perfect time to try the bus. Why not jump on board? It’s an affordable, hassle-free way to get around Portsmouth.”
This new offering is made possible through the £48 million Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan, a comprehensive project aimed at transforming and improving the accessibility and affordability of bus services within the city, designed to get passengers back on the bus.
