Latest news with #LondonTravelWatch
The Independent
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Independent
The Oyster cards affected by price increases
Transport for London (TfL) has increased the price of London 's Oyster cards for the first time in a decade, attributing the rises to increasing operational costs. The application fee for the 60+ London Oyster card has seen the largest increase, almost doubling from £20 to £35. Fees for the annual eligibility check and replacement 60+ photocards have also risen from £10 to £18, with increases also applied to various Zip photocards. From 7 September, the cost of new Oyster cards and Visitor Oyster cards will increase from £7 to £10. Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of London TravelWatch, criticised the increases, stating they are unwelcome news for Londoners facing the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Time Out
21-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out
The price of London's 60+, Zip and Student Oyster Cards is going up this week
We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but from tomorrow (Tuesday, July 22), the price of London's Oyster cards will go up for the first time in a decade. And the city's senior citizens are set to see the biggest increase. TfL has revealed that the price of the 60+ Oyster card will almost double from £20 to £35, while the cost of its annual eligibility check (needed if someone wants to retain their card) will increase from £10 to £18. If someone needs to replace their card, they'll also now have to pay £18 instead of the previous £10. As for the young 'uns, the Oyster Zip cards that provide half price tube travel and free bus journeys for kids, students, apprentices and care leavers, will all go up by £1. The replacement fee for those cards will also increase from £10 to £11. On top of all that, TfL has plans to increase the prices of new Oyster cards and Visitor Oyster cards from £7 to £10 in September. Freedom Passes are safe from the price hike, as they're managed by London Councils TfL said that the price hikes are necessary for helping it deal with wider financial constraints. It said that the huge hike for the 60+ card in particular is down to the fact that it has the 'biggest gap between the estimated revenue that we would receive were these journeys paid for, and the income we receive through fee'. Alex Williams, chief customer and strategy officer at TfL, said: 'We are fully committed to keeping travel in London affordable and accessible to everyone. 'Our fees for photocards haven't increased in 10 years, and these changes will mean that we can continue to provide these concessions while ensuring that the fees better reflect our costs for operating the schemes.' Of course, the news isn't going to be music to Londoners' ears. Michael Roberts, chief executive of London TravelWatch, said: 'Higher TfL photocard fees, especially for the over-60s, will be unwelcome news to Londoners who continue to feel the pinch of the ongoing cost of living crisis and some of the most expensive public transport fares in Europe. 'Annual index-linked increases might in future avoid big hikes in fees, but it's disappointing that more isn't being done to soften the blow this year for 60+ card holders on lower incomes. Londoners will be wondering what further unpleasant revenue-raising surprises TfL might have in store over the coming months.' London Oyster card price increases
Metro
05-07-2025
- General
- Metro
I moved to London dreaming of LGBTQ+ paradise — the reality is bleak
I was 22 when I first moved to London. I thought I'd be skipping around Soho, going to drag brunches every weekend, and hanging out every day with a queer-version of the Sex and the City friendship group. But the reality is far bleaker than I imagined. Perhaps I'd been spoiled living in Manchester for years before making the move. The Gay Village there now seems like a magical utopia compared to what I've experienced here. Politely turning down men in bars has led to full-blown debates about my sexuality. Saying, 'No thanks, I have a girlfriend' has brought on responses like: 'So you're a virgin, then?', 'You're too pretty to be a lesbian', 'I could turn you', and 'Can we have a threesome?'. Of course, homophobia exists everywhere; it would be naive to think otherwise. And maybe I've just been 'lucky' before, but the bombardment of low-level insults, intimidation and disrespect is something I haven't experienced elsewhere. Not in Manchester and not even in my tiny hometown. The sheer frequency at which it happens here is exhausting, and something I hadn't accounted for. There are times I won't even hold my girlfriend's hand in Central London. I don't want to be shouted at by protesters across the street, handed a leaflet with the word 'sin' on it, or be hurled slurs by teenagers on Lime bikes. Yes, all of which have happened before. With thousands of members from all over the world, our vibrant LGBTQ+ WhatsApp channel is a hub for all the latest news and important issues that face the LGBTQ+ community. Simply click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! Don't forget to turn on notifications! I'll hesitate to peck her on the tube. I've become too conscious of gawking eyes and confused looks. Maybe it's the heat and lack of ventilation down there affecting people's cognitive abilities and manners. Don't they know it's rude to stare? It's utterly depressing, even more so knowing that this isn't the worst of it. There seem to be alarming hate crime stories making headlines every week. Figures released last year revealed that hate crimes, including homophobic attacks, have risen on the TfL network. A 2023 report by London TravelWatch revealed that one in five LGBTQ+ Londoners have experienced a hate crime, with respondents often feeling uneasy or 'on edge' when using the capital's network. These statistics are echoed across the rest of the country, as the UK has dropped in global rankings for LGBTQ+ rights. The annual analysis by IGLA-Europe, a human-rights group, cited the recent Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a 'woman', as well as queer refugees facing homeless and abuse as just some of the reasons for its low placement. Even in LGBTQ+ spaces, safety isn't promised. It's only been two years since two homosexual men were attacked with a knife while they were outside the popular LGBTQ+ venue, the Two Brewers in Clapham. For myself, and so many others who leave their hometown in search of community and acceptance, London isn't always the safe space imagined. Chloe Smith, 25, moved from Coventry, moved to London in 2022 after attending the University in Birmingham. They now live in Brixton and have experienced homophobia practically on their doorstep. 'Quite recently, I was holding hands with my girlfriend and got screamed at on the way to Sainsbury's. They were screaming 'dyke',' Chloe tells Metro. 'I was also walking with my gay male friend around Brockwell Park, and again, people screamed dyke.' There have been many worse instances, however. 'I was once in very central London, near Warren Street and kissed someone I was on a first date with, and a man came up to us and offered us £100 to have sex,' Chloe says, adding that the man followed them both to King's Cross afterwards. 'Recently, I gave my partner a peck at Waterloo, and a man came up to her, grabbed her waist and started saying something sexual,' they add. 'I had to push him away.' Lucy, 25, also moved to London in 2022, originally to Vauxhall, 'the gay mecca of London', and now in Brixton. She has also noticed looks and comments made to her in Central London when being with female partners. 'I remember one particular instance we were walking past Heaven in Soho and these guys made comments about my body, sexualising it while I was with my partner. My partner spoke up, and they were threatened with assault,' she tells Metro. 'That being said, I have seen and heard worse and know people who have been physically assaulted.' However, there are obvious draws to London. Chloe says London has provided the LGBTQ+ community and friendships that they didn't have in Birmingham or Coventry. One thing London is great for, Chloe says, is the LGBTQ+ events. More Trending 'There's been an emergence of pop up events, there's a pop up called Dyke Bar, there's pool, there's rounders, there's Dykes who Hike, there's a running group called Les Run,' Chloe adds. 'I've recently joined a football group, I've started climbing with a gay climbing group, and I've really found community through sober groups with the option of alcohol.' Pointing out there is a 'barrier' in accessing many spaces, such as lesbian club nights, which can cost upwards of £20, and events that are specifically catered towards CIS white gay men, Chloe adds: 'I do think you just happen upon people. I think if you know where to look, Instagram is a great place for it. You can really find your community.' Lucy echoes this, saying: 'I think what's really great is there is a sense of community, but you have to go searching for it. In a sense you need to be locked into the community, the scene and the culture in order to be accepted.' Gareth Watson, community and safety manager for the LGBT Foundation, tells Metro: 'Cities like London are often seen as diverse and inclusive, but many LGBTQ+ people still don't feel safe. 'Hate crimes are rising, and public harassment is a daily reality for some. Simply holding hands with a partner, dressing in a way that reflects your identity, or using public transport at night can make someone a target, even in well-lit, crowded areas, particularly if they are alone or visibly queer or trans.' Gareth adds that safety for LGBTQ+ people requires real action, not just kind words. He says: 'The government must strengthen legal protections, take a clear stand against rising anti-LGBTQ+ hate and misinformation, and properly fund LGBTQ+ services. In large, busy cities like London, it's easy to feel isolated, especially when support services are overstretched or difficult to access. 'Everyone in society – schools, workplaces, the media, and individuals – has a role to play. Whether it's calling out homophobia and transphobia when it's safe to do so, listening and learning, or actively supporting LGBTQ+ spaces, we all have a part in creating a world where people are safe, respected, and free to be themselves.' The LGBT Foundation runs a national helpline and provides training and education programmes for both individuals and organisations. In London, Gareth recommends the following organisations: London Friend The Outside Project Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline Stonewall Housing UK Black Pride and other groups led by and for Black LGBTQ+ people Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: What I Own: We bought our £260,350 London home through a government saving scheme MORE: London Pride map shows route parade will take through city today MORE: The 'underrated' neighbourhood Londoners are flocking to for £20,000 discounts Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Telegraph
21-06-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Khan expected to raise Tube fares every year until 2030
'Once again, Labour has forced inflation-busting fare rises on Londoners, humiliating Mayor Khan by yet again removing his fare-setting power,' he said. 'All while he pretends they're on our side and supporting devolution – ridiculous.' The retail price index (RPI) measure of inflation stood at 4.3 per cent in May. The Government prefers referring to the lower CPI measure of inflation, which economists say is a more reliable measure of inflation. Yet RPI is widely used across the public and private sectors alike to maximise financial returns from things, such as rental contracts. 'Offers no comfort to Londoners' Sir Sadiq increased most TfL fares – including for the Elizabeth line and London Overground – by about 4.6pc in March, but froze bus fares at £1.75. Main line rail fares are set by the Department for Transport (DfT), which has traditionally used RPI-plus-1 per cent. Last year that increase was also 4.6pc. The next TfL fare increase is not due until March 2026, but may be announced before Christmas, the London Standard reported. London TravelWatch chief executive Michael Roberts said the above-inflation rises 'offers no comfort to Londoners who continue to feel the pinch of the ongoing cost of living crisis and some of the most expensive public transport fares in Europe.' He added: 'In previous years, the blow has been softened by freezing London bus fares. We look forward to seeing how TfL plans to keep fares affordable for those who need it most while ensuring at the same time that there is enough investment to maintain and renew the capital's existing transport network.' 'More complex than expected' In a second blow for London commuters on Friday, TfL also announced that new trains for the Piccadilly Line will not enter service for another year. Air-conditioned 2024 stock units were meant to be rolled out later this year, but will now not do so until the second half of 2026. TfL said that tests of the Austrian-made prototype train in London had proved 'more complex than expected', adding that 'mitigations or design alterations' might result. Stuart Harvey, TfL's Chief Capital Officer, said: 'It will obviously be disappointing for customers that they will have to wait a bit longer for the new trains, and I regret that. 'But I would like to assure Londoners and visitors to our city that we are working extremely closely with Siemens to ensure that the new trains can be introduced as soon as possible in the second half of next year.' Sambit Banerjee, the joint chief executive of Siemens Mobility, which is building the new trains, said: 'Any project like this is complicated – we're bringing state-of-the-art, air-conditioned, walk-through trains into tunnels that were built 120 years ago.' Sir Sadiq's spokesman said: 'The Mayor will confirm plans for future fares in due course. However, the Government has been clear that the funding settlement assumes TfL fares will increase each year by RPI+1 for each year of the settlement.' A DfT spokesman said: 'While Government has assumed a rise in fares when calculating funding for TfL, transport is devolved in London, and it's ultimately for the Mayor to decide the level of fares passengers pay. 'Government has provided a record £2.2 billion settlement for TfL between 2026 and 2030 – the largest multi-year settlement for London for over a decade. This funding will have tangible and positive impacts for people in London and across the country, boosting economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.'
Telegraph
20-06-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Labour orders Khan to raise Tube fares every year until 2030
'Once again, Labour has forced inflation-busting fare rises on Londoners, humiliating Mayor Khan by yet again removing his fare-setting power,' he said. 'All while he pretends they're on our side and supporting devolution – ridiculous.' The retail price index (RPI) measure of inflation stood at 4.3 per cent in May. The Government prefers referring to the lower CPI measure of inflation, which economists say is a more reliable measure of inflation. Yet RPI is widely used across the public and private sectors alike to maximise financial returns from things, such as rental contracts. 'Offers no comfort to Londoners' Sir Sadiq increased most TfL fares – including for the Elizabeth line and London Overground – by about 4.6pc in March, but froze bus fares at £1.75. Main line rail fares are set by the Department for Transport (DfT), which has traditionally used RPI-plus-1 per cent. Last year that increase was also 4.6pc. The next TfL fare increase is not due until March 2026, but may be announced before Christmas, the London Standard reported. London TravelWatch chief executive Michael Roberts said the above-inflation rises 'offers no comfort to Londoners who continue to feel the pinch of the ongoing cost of living crisis and some of the most expensive public transport fares in Europe.' He added: 'In previous years, the blow has been softened by freezing London bus fares. We look forward to seeing how TfL plans to keep fares affordable for those who need it most while ensuring at the same time that there is enough investment to maintain and renew the capital's existing transport network.' 'More complex than expected' In a second blow for London commuters on Friday, TfL also announced that new trains for the Piccadilly Line will not enter service for another year. Air-conditioned 2024 stock units were meant to be rolled out later this year, but will now not do so until the second half of 2026. TfL said that tests of the Austrian-made prototype train in London had proved 'more complex than expected', adding that 'mitigations or design alterations' might result. Stuart Harvey, TfL's Chief Capital Officer, said: 'It will obviously be disappointing for customers that they will have to wait a bit longer for the new trains, and I regret that. 'But I would like to assure Londoners and visitors to our city that we are working extremely closely with Siemens to ensure that the new trains can be introduced as soon as possible in the second half of next year.' Sambit Banerjee, the joint chief executive of Siemens Mobility, which is building the new trains, said: 'Any project like this is complicated – we're bringing state-of-the-art, air-conditioned, walk-through trains into tunnels that were built 120 years ago.' Sir Sadiq's spokesman said: 'The Mayor will confirm plans for future fares in due course. However, the Government has been clear that the funding settlement assumes TfL fares will increase each year by RPI+1 for each year of the settlement.'
