In this fast-paced world, transportation costs can quickly add up, affecting the household budget. The ‘Get Around for £2’ scheme aims to alleviate this burden by capping bus fares at just £2 for single tickets on over 5,000 routes in England, excluding London. This affordable pricing structure enables individuals to access work, visit loved ones, attend medical appointments, and enjoy holidays without breaking the bank.
The £2 Bus Fare Cap: An Overview
Originally scheduled to end on June 30, the scheme has been extended until October 31, 2023. During this period, passengers can save a third of the average ticket price, resulting in significant savings over time. Thanks to a government funding injection of £200 million, the scheme will continue at £2.50 for an additional year until November 2024.
Extending the Scheme for Additional Benefits
The extension of the ‘Get Around for £2’ scheme demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting households amidst the rising cost of living. This initiative is particularly advantageous for those with lower incomes, who often rely on bus services for their daily transportation needs.
How the Scheme Works
To benefit from the scheme, passengers simply need to purchase a single bus ticket on any of the participating routes. The fare will be automatically capped at £2, regardless of the distance traveled. This straightforward process ensures accessibility and ease of use for all passengers.
The introduction of the £2 fare cap has had a positive impact on bus fares in England outside London, reducing them by 8% within the first three months. Moreover, a study conducted by Transport Focus revealed that 11% of respondents increased their bus usage thanks to the scheme. As a result, 80% of participants agreed that the £2 tickets significantly helped alleviate the cost of living.
Some of the most significant savings can be enjoyed on the longest routes across the country, all thanks to the fare cap.
| Journey | Normal fare (£) | Amount saved (£) | % saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancaster to Kendal | £10.90 | £8.90 | 81% |
| Plymouth to Exeter | £7.50 | £5.50 | 73% |
| Newcastle to Middlesbrough | £8.00 | £6.00 | 75% |
| Hull to York | £8.50 | £6.50 | 76% |
| Leeds to Scarborough | £15.00 | £13.00 | 87% |
Partnerships and Participation
Over 140 bus operators covering more than 5,000 routes have pledged their support for the ‘Get Around for £2’ scheme. These partnerships ensure widespread availability and convenient access to affordable bus travel.
In addition to the scheme’s extension, the government has allocated £300 million to protect vital bus routes and enhance services until 2025. This long-term investment provides stability and certainty for the bus industry while improving transportation connections to further drive economic growth.
Achieving a Zero-Emission Bus Fleet
To promote environmentally friendly transportation, the government is committed to achieving a zero-emission bus (ZEB) fleet. Significant investments have been made to support the adoption of ZEBs across the UK, bringing us closer to a net-zero transport network and reducing carbon emissions.
Support for Integrated Transport Networks
The government has allocated £5.7 billion to eight mayoral-combined authorities in England to develop integrated, cross-modal transport networks over the next five years. This investment, known as the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility throughout the regions, including comprehensive support for bus infrastructure.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
