Rail fares in Wales set for ‘significant’ hike in March

Rail fares in Wales will be subject to a cap of 5.9% instead of the previously planned 12.3% increase in 2023, the changes will come into effect from March 5th.

The Welsh government acknowledged that this increase will be difficult for passengers in the current cost of living crisis but said it tried to keep the increase as low as possible.

Lee Waters, deputy climate minister said: “We understand this is a significant increase for passengers in the current cost of living crisis but we have tried to keep the increase as low as possible.”

“Unfortunately given the disappointing budget settlement from the UK Government we cannot afford to deliver a lower increase or a wholescale freeze of rail fares in Wales.”

“Our budget settlement from the UK Government, combined with a reduced farebox income post pandemic, means we face some difficult choices if we are to maintain the current level of provision of rail services in Wales.”

Around 45% of rail fares are regulated, including season tickets on commuter journeys, some Off Peak Return tickets on longer journeys, and some Anytime tickets. These are grouped into “fares baskets”, with the 5.9% increase applied to the total of these fares baskets.

As a result, some fares may increase, some may stay the same, and some may decrease in price to meet demand and meet the average increase.

Unregulated tickets such as Advance tickets are not included in this increase.

Transport for Wales has been tasked with delivering simple, integrated ticketing solutions across public transport modes to help make public transport easier and more affordable for passengers.

In addition, Transport for Wales is retaining a range of cheaper fares for passengers, including free travel for children when they travel with a fare-paying adult.