Train fares will rise in 2011

In a letter to Southern’s managing director, Chris Burchell, Mr Barker highlighted the discretion that train companies have over the increase in fares across the whole network and urged moderation.

However, as of January, Southern says regulated fares (fares set by the government such as season tickets) will rise by 5.8 per cent, whilst unregulated fares (fares Southern determines such as off peak) will rise by an average of six per cent.

Some fares may go up by more and others will rise by less or not at all. There are no regulated increases higher than 7.8 per cent.

Mr Barker suggested the East Coastway line should be at the bottom end of the increases as commuters are important to Bexhill’s future prosperity.

He also pointed out they face a longer journey and poorer service compared to commuters in other towns of a similar distance from London. In particular, the sharing of the line to London with the Brighton trains means longer waits and fewer services.

Mr Barker said: “Everyone is trying to tighten their belt and make savings. Our trains have to do likewise and give local communities a break.”

However a spokesman for Southern said, unlike some rail operators, the company receives no government subsidy and therefore has to raise as much cash as it can to continue to operate.

He said: “The level of regulated fares increases throughout the duration of our franchise formed part of our contract with the government. On the basis of the income from the increases we contracted to pay the government an increasing premium throughout the life of our franchise. If we did not apply the increases in the way in which we have, we would not be able to pay the premium.

“When the rate of increase rises to RPI (Retail Price Index) plus three per cent in January 2012, our contract will be adjusted to ensure that the additional revenue goes straight back to the government, which intends to use the money to reduce the burden of funding the railway that falls on the taxpayer.

“Southern will not make any profit from this change.”

Southern’s fare review will see commuters between Bexhill and London Victoria paying an extra £26.90 for a monthly season ticket - an increase of 7.8 per cent from £344.80 to £371.70.

LEFT: MP Greg Barker