Councillor Mattie Heaven has criticised Mayor Richard Parker following the latest increase in West Midlands bus fares, saying Coventry residents are once again being asked to pay more at a time when many households are already struggling with rising costs.
From 28 June 2026, the cost of an adult West Midlands day ticket increased from £5.20 to £5.50, with weekly, monthly and annual passes also becoming more expensive.
Councillor Heaven said:
“Many Coventry residents rely on buses to travel to work, education, hospital appointments and to access our city centre. At a time when household budgets remain under pressure, this latest fare increase is deeply disappointing.
Under Andy Street, bus fares were frozen for several years because affordable public transport was recognised as essential for working people. Since Richard Parker took office, passengers have seen repeated fare increases.
It is frankly shameful that this administration continues to place additional financial strain on residents who depend on public transport the most.
If we want people to use public transport, reduce congestion and improve air quality, we should be making buses more affordable, not pricing people off them.
Passengers deserve a transport system that is reliable, affordable and delivers value for money. Coventry residents will rightly question why fares continue to rise while many services remain under pressure.”
The latest increase means an adult day ticket now costs £5.50, while weekly and monthly travel passes have also risen in price.”
