SBG seeks third rise
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THE SCOTTISH Bus Group can expect fierce opposition to its plans to raise fares for the third time this year. The group's plea to increase fares will be heard by the Traffic Commissioners in Edinburgh on November 1 and 2.
The list of objectors is likely to be led by Lothian Regional Council. When the group was awarded a 71/2 per cent rise in August, the region warned it would oppose a future rise if there was no improvement in the fares structure.
It wants a structure which will give those living near Edinburgh a relatively better deal. Councillors are anxious to have fares related more to Edinburgh city bus fares than to other services in Scotland.
Midlothian District Council and Central Regional Council have already lodged objections. West Lothian and East Lothian District Council are expected to follow.
The Traffic Commissioners have already told the group that they expect to receive some concrete evidence about what they are doing to improve services.
A bus group official said: "The reason for the proposed increase is caused purely by additional fuel costs and costs for tyres for our fleet throughout Scotland."