UK Government Announces £500 Million Initiative for Affordable Bus Services

The UK government has allocated £500 million in funding to support affordable bus fares and improved services for millions of passengers in England. Transport Secretary Mark Harper confirmed that £300 million would protect vital routes and enhance services until 2025, ensuring reliable work, education, healthcare, and shopping transportation.

To alleviate living costs and help individuals save on daily travel expenses, the government will provide up to £200 million to extend the cap on single bus fares at £2 outside London until October 2023 and then at £2.50 until November 2024. This measure aims to relieve financial pressures and provide long-term certainty for bus users.

Although bus usage dropped to as low as 10% during the pandemic, it has now recovered to around 85-90% of pre-pandemic levels. The fare cap seeks to attract more passengers. Initially a temporary measure, the £2 fare cap has been extended for the second time due to its positive impact on travel affordability.

The additional funding will be shared between local transport authorities and bus operators to safeguard and enhance routes across England, ensuring the long-term financial stability of the bus sector. The funding models will protect vulnerable routes while allowing local authorities and operators to determine suitable routes.

This funding builds upon the government’s existing support, which has surpassed £2 billion over the past three years, aiding the sector’s recovery from the pandemic. Over £1 billion has been allocated to support local authorities in implementing their long-term plans to improve bus services.

The UK government continues collaborating closely with the bus sector to manage changing travel patterns and address financial pressures. Additionally, eight mayoral combined authorities in England will receive a £5.7 billion investment over the next five years through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) to support integrated, cross-modal transport networks, including bus infrastructure.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the importance of affordable bus travel, stating that it connects communities, supports the economy, and ensures easy and affordable mobility for everyone.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that buses are the most popular form of public transport and millions of people rely on these vital services daily.

Article Writer - LexaNews Journalist