PASSENGERS are facing fare increases for journeys on routes operated by Arriva Buses.o

From this Sunday (January 6), most tickets which currently cost less than £2 will rise by 10p, with a few remaining the same. Fares of over £2 will go up by 20p.

The price increase affects services from Arriva's Harlow depot which go to Bishop's Stortford, Epping, Waltham Abbey and Romford.

Arriva general manager Paul Woolmore said the fare rise was unavoidable.

He said: "Continuing pressure on costs, particularly those associated with recruiting and retaining bus drivers means we've been unable to avoid raising our prices.

Company spokesman David Shadbolt added: "It's a problem affecting the whole of the bus industry particularly in the south east of England because unemployment is so low which makes it tough to recruit drivers."

Twilight Zone tickets for evening travel, and Explorer tickets will not be affected, remaining at £5 each.

December 28, 2001 13:12