Whilst the number of bus routes in the area continue to dwindle, they may start being a little cheaper at least.
Millions of people across England can now save money and “Get Around for £2”, thanks to £60 million government funding to cap single bus fares until the end of March.
From the start of this year until March 31, 2023, over 130 bus operators outside of London will charge no more than £2 for their single tickets across over 4,600 routes, helping families, commuters and other passengers save money on travel.
With the average single bus fare for a three-mile journey costing around £2.80 outside London, passengers will save almost a third of the single ticket price, with even bigger savings in some rural areas where tickets can reach over £5.
The initiative encourages people to get back on the bus to help the industry continue its recovery from the pandemic. It will also reduce CO2 emissions and tackle congestion by taking an estimated two-million cars off the road.
The scheme forms part of the government’s “Help for Households” campaign, as the new cap can deliver real savings for those most affected by the rising cost of living.
This fare cap builds on the allocation of more than £2 billion to support bus services in England through the pandemic and a commitment to fund improved services, new bus priority measures and new electric or hydrogen buses.