Devon MPs hail Stagecoach fare zone overhaul after months of bus chaos backlash

Two West Devon MPs say Stagecoach’s decision to redraw fare zones across the region is a “step in the right direction”, following months of pressure from parents and local communities affected by sudden price rises and service changes earlier this year.

Stagecoach previously confirmed that new 10-mile travel zones will be introduced across Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay and North Devon from early January 2026. 

READ NEXT: Devon unveils major SEND reforms aiming to cut travel and boost local support

The overhaul, reported by The Moorlander earlier this week, will standardise ticket prices, with adult day fares set at £6.50 and child fares at £4.30 across all four zones. 

Many Dartmoor communities, including Yelverton, Horrabridge, Ivybridge, Ide, Crediton and Crockernwell, fall within the new boundaries.

The rezoning follows crisis talks held in August after families were hit by large fare increases and last-minute timetable changes just before the start of the school term. 

Sir Geoffrey Cox KC MP and West Devon MP Rebecca Smith met the Stagecoach Chief Executive on 12 August, before facilitating further discussions with Devon County Council on 12 September. 

Both MPs have also pressed the Secretary of State for a review of school transport funding for Devon.

Sir Geoffrey Cox said he welcomed Stagecoach’s decision to include parts of Torridge and West Devon within the Plymouth and Barnstaple zones.

“I am pleased that the review of zoning boundaries I proposed to Stagecoach with Rebecca Smith MP back in August has now concluded with the announcement that many of the worst fare increases will be mitigated,” he said. 

“I will be reviewing the detailed proposals with Stagecoach over the next few days to work out the full effects and how other left-out areas might be included… It’s a first step in the right direction.”

Rebecca Smith MP said the changes would make a real difference for families in her constituency.

READ NEXT: Dartmoor Ponies spark rare bird revival in new conservation survey at Bellever

“This week’s announcement on the Stagecoach rezoning is great news for my West Devon residents in Yelverton and Horrabridge,” she said. “I thank the Managing Director for listening to Sir Geoffrey and my representations for this change.”

However, Ms Smith warned that the wider problems experienced by passengers must still be addressed.

“I continue to hold concerns about the reliability of Stagecoach’s services. Too many families have been forced to make alternative travel arrangements because of late, overcrowded and cancelled buses.

“I am continuing to lobby Stagecoach with Sir Geoffrey for real improvements in service levels so our communities can rely on the buses they depend on” she said.

The fare changes are expected to come into effect early in the new year on 4 January 2026.