Public transport users are facing higher costs after fare increases were introduced by both LibertyBus and electric vehicle hire company EVie from Sunday 1 March.

LibertyBus has raised the price of single bus tickets, with adults who pay by card now charged £2.75 per journey, up from £2.55. Children paying by card will see fares rise from £1.27 to £1.40.

Passengers who pay with cash will still pay more, with adult fares set at £3 and children’s tickets costing £1.50.

One child under the age of five can continue to travel free with each fare-paying adult.

Meanwhile, EVie also implemented price increases from the same date, citing continued rises in operating costs.

The electric vehicle company said higher expenses for energy, insurance, vehicle maintenance and staffing had prompted a review of its pricing structure.

The firm said the changes have focused on larger and premium vehicles, where operating costs are highest. It added that it would continue to offer no seasonal pricing and maintain off-peak options.

EVie chief executive Nick Perchard-Rees said the company had absorbed as much of the increased costs as possible before making what he described as “targeted adjustments”.

“Everyone understands that costs have increased over the past few years, from insurance to energy to the everyday costs of running a business,” he said.

“We’ve absorbed as much as we responsibly can, but to keep EVie strong and sustainable, some targeted adjustments are necessary.

“What hasn’t changed is our belief that transport should be flexible and affordable. We’ve been very deliberate in keeping pricing clear, fair and accessible, while ensuring we can continue investing in the service.

“The cost of owning a private vehicle continues to rise – insurance, servicing, depreciation. EVie gives people a genuine alternative. You only pay for a vehicle when you need one.

“We’re proud of the role EVie plays in helping reduce the cost of living, reduce the cost of ownership and support a cleaner public transport system.

“This is about building something sustainable for the long-term, and continuing to transform transport across the communities we serve.”