A major change to bus travel across England will come into force on Saturday, 1 August. The new measure, first announced over two months ago by the former Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will allow under-16s to use local buses for free for the entire month of August.
Details of the scheme
Children between the ages of five and 15 will benefit from the government's Great British Summer Savings scheme. The change aims to help families enjoy days out for less over the school holidays. Child fares typically cost between £1 and £2, meaning families will be able to save on the cost of travel for a total of 31 days. While adults do not qualify, single bus fares in England are currently capped at a maximum of £3.
Official comments
Speaking in the House of Commons last week, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, Simon Lightwood, confirmed the plans will go ahead from this weekend. "The Government know how important affordable bus travel is for helping children and young people to access opportunities," he said. "This will help families to get out and about for less during the summer holidays. It builds on local initiatives from Labour Mayors in the west and north-east of England that allow children to travel by bus for free."
When asked if the scheme could be extended past the end of August, Mr Lightwood replied: "We will continue to keep our options open, in order to make sure that bus travel is safe, accessible and affordable for everyone."
Speaking earlier this month, Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said: "Great British Summer Savings means more people can be excited about getting out and about this summer, whether it’s seeing the Roman Baths, learning something new at the Science Museum, or falling asleep on the bus ride home after a day riding rollercoasters at Alton Towers."
Ms Alexander added: "I know that the cost of living is a concern for households across the UK, which is why we’re cutting the cost of the day-to-day, with free bus travel for children this summer and the £3 bus fare cap helping more families make the most of the small plans that make life enjoyable."
Exclusions
It is important to note that not every bus journey in England is covered by the scheme, with some companies choosing not to take part in some areas. Long-distance National Express coaches, tourist buses and private hire vehicles are not included.
