Metrolink fares rise

Rochdale Metrolink

Fare increases of an average of 4.2% have come into effect for Metrolink passengers.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) said the rise will help fund the £1.5bn network expansion and cover operating costs.

Quarterly season tickets and four-adult day Travelcards have been withdrawn.

TfGM, which oversees Metrolink, said fares will increase from 10p depending on the journey but the cost of some monthly passes will fall.

But it said planned new Oyster-style "smart ticketing" will make fares "simpler" and "more consistent".

Councillor Andrew Fender, chairman of the TfGM committee, said: "At a time when local authorities are facing significant budget pressures, it is vital that Metrolink can cover its own operating costs without any burden on the public purse."

In 2011, Metrolink fares went up by an average of more than 6%.