BUS chiefs have hailed the introduction of a £2 cap on fares for three months from the new year.
First Bus bosses spoke out ahead of the introduction of the Department for Transport (DfT)’s £2 flat fare scheme for three months from New Year’s Day.
Running until March 31, the scheme has seen £60million in taxpayers’ money allocated to cap single tickets for more than 130 bus operators outside of London.
It’s hoped the scheme will see around two million cars off the road in a bid to reduce emissions and encourage struggling commuters to embrace public transport.
Andrew Jarvis, chief operations officer at First Bus, welcomed the move to help bus companies recover from the ravages of the pandemic.
“We are keen to work with the Government and our local authority partners on any ideas which aim to make bus travel in the UK more attractive to more people,” he said.
“During this cost-of-living crisis, the bus offers everyone a cost-effective and environmentally friendly, alternative mode of transport.
“We look forward to welcoming new and existing customers alike on board our services and hope that this scheme can be a success in encouraging more people to consider using the bus as part of their everyday travel habits.”
The scheme forms part of the Government’s Help for Households campaign, as the new cap can deliver savings for those most affected by the rising cost of living.
It has been estimated people can save almost a third of the average £2.80 bus fare, while in some rural areas, tickets can reach more than £5 for a single journey.
National Express will also be freezing their child’s single tickets to £1.
Graham Vidler, chief executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport added: “Travelling for £2 on the bus both helps customers facing rising cost challenges and try a new travel option to get to work, education, public services, leisure or see loved ones.”
