Portsmouth City Council will implement new Park and Ride fares from 28 September 2025, marking the first price increase since the service launched in 2014 due to rising operational costs and sustainability needs.
The council has announced updated pricing for the popular Park and Ride service, representing the initial fare adjustment since operations commenced over ten years ago.
Officials state the price revision is essential to maintain service efficiency, reliability and long-term viability as operational expenses continue to climb. The service will still deliver strong value for money, particularly benefiting groups, families and frequent users.
Simplified fare options have been introduced for regular passengers, streamlining the most popular choices whilst maintaining flexible travel arrangements.
The revised fare system includes:
- Daily ticket £5
- Daily ticket including Hoverbus connection £7
- 10-journey Flexipass £35
- 20-journey Flexipass £60
- 50-journey Flexipass £145
Flexipass tickets provide optimal value for regular passengers, delivering savings with unlimited travel flexibility during the validity period. Individual return journeys cost between £2.90 and £3.50 daily, based on the selected pass type.
Passengers can maximise savings through car sharing, with up to five individuals travelling on one ticket, creating an economical option for families, friends and work colleagues.
Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, commented: “We recognise that numerous residents face pressure from increasing living expenses, and this decision required careful consideration. Nevertheless, fare updates are vital to address growing operational costs whilst preserving a high-standard, sustainable park and ride operation. We remain committed to providing convenient and economical travel alternatives that reduce congestion and support Portsmouth’s environmental goals.”
The Park and Ride system maintains its position as an affordable, practical and environmentally-friendly route to the city centre. Users can board and alight throughout the day, eliminating city centre parking fees whilst contributing to decreased traffic and emissions.
The service caters to commuters, shoppers and visitors, offering a relaxed, budget-conscious alternative to city centre driving.
First Bus Solent manages the year-round park and ride PR1 service on behalf of the council, connecting Portsmouth city centre and The Hard Interchange from M275 Junction 1 near Tipner. Summer weekend operations include the PR3 service, providing direct access to Old Portsmouth and Southsea seafront, enabling swift and convenient access to activities and seasonal events.
For additional information regarding fare modifications, customers may access the fare change FAQs at parkandride.portsmouth.gov.uk or contact parkandride@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
