Single and return bus journeys in Ipswich could be more expensive under fare changes set to take effect at the end of the month. 

Ipswich Buses said fares have not changed since February 2022, but a review and adjustment to pricing is coming into place to ensure the "sustainability of services".

The firm said its operational costs are rising, and the changes will "simplify the pricing model" in the town.

Among the changes include introducing a flat-fare system for single and return journeys, a 'short-hop' fare option and continuing participation in the £2 fare scheme.

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But the Town Day ticket will reduce in price to £4.50 and will be available on the Ipswich Buses app. 

Other changes include expanding the Town fare zone, rebranding Country tickets to Network tickets, and renaming TownRider period and multi-journey products as Town passes. 

The name changes will not affect the validity of tickets.

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Dan Bassett, managing director at Ipswich Buses, said: "We understand that any change in pricing requires careful consideration.

"We also understand that, like us, customers are also facing cost of living pressures, which is why we have done our absolute best to minimise the impact this will have on customers and kept any increases as low as possible.

"We believe this package of fare changes, the boundary expansion, and the introduction of a new operating service, the 8B from Bramford to Ipswich via Sproughton Lane, along with the reduction in the price of all-day travel on our services continues to offer a value for money service that contributes positively to our passengers' travel experience and the overall value we offer.

"Our team is committed to keeping Ipswich moving efficiently and as affordably as possible."

The new changes will come into effect on Sunday, March 31.