COMMUTERS taking the bus in Basingstoke instead of driving cars are better off by £1,500, according to the bus company which runs services in the town.

Research carried out by Stagecoach showed that people who use the bus to commute between Kempshott Park and Basingstoke town centre are on average £1,525 better off than those travelling to work by car.

Stagecoach added the study showed in Basingstoke, bus travel costs are around 70 per cent cheaper than the same commute by car, saving passengers an average of around £132.66 a month.

The research was revealed as Stagecoach launches a nationwide campaign to highlight the value and flexibility offered through the company’s multi-journey weekly tickets.

Edward Hodgson, managing director of Stagecoach South, said: “This research shows it can still be significantly cheaper to commute to work by bus rather than car for many people.

“The savings could go towards a family holiday or home improvements or more into the monthly shopping budget.

“We work hard to deliver high quality services for the many people who rely on the bus, and our current campaign demonstrates the great value, unlimited travel we offer through our weekly tickets.”

In Basingstoke, the average cost of a weekly megarider ticket – which can be used anytime within the local Stagecoach area over a seven day period – is as little as £13.90.