Bus passengers to save hundreds as government prevents cliff-edge fare hike
Date: 2025-01-01 00:01
Source: UK News and Communications
Summary:
The government has announced a new policy that will prevent a “cliff-edge” fare hike for bus passengers in England from April 2025. The policy will cap bus fares at 2024 levels for two years, saving passengers an estimated £100-£200 per year.
The government’s decision comes after months of campaigning by passenger groups and local authorities. They had warned that a sharp increase in fares would disproportionately impact low-income families and essential workers who rely on buses for their daily commutes.
The new policy will apply to all bus services in England, including those operated by both private and public companies. The government will provide funding to bus operators to cover the shortfall in revenue caused by the fare cap.
Background:
In 2022, the government introduced a £2 billion Bus Service Improvement Plan to improve the quality and frequency of bus services in England. However, the plan also included a provision that would have allowed bus fares to increase by up to 5% above inflation from April 2025.
This announcement sparked widespread concern among passenger groups and local authorities. They argued that a fare hike of this magnitude would make it unaffordable for many people to use buses, particularly in rural areas where alternative transport options are limited.
Reaction:
The government’s decision to prevent the fare hike has been welcomed by passenger groups and local authorities.
Bus Users UK, a passenger advocacy group, said the policy was “a huge victory for bus passengers.”
“This will make a big difference to the millions of people who rely on buses every day,” said Bus Users UK’s CEO, Simon Bosman. “It will save them money and make it easier for them to get around.”
Local authorities also praised the government’s decision. The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, said the policy would “provide much-needed certainty for passengers and local authorities.”
“We have been calling on the government to take action to prevent a cliff-edge fare hike, and we are pleased that they have listened,” said the LGA’s transport spokesman, Cllr David Renard.
Conclusion:
The government’s decision to prevent a cliff-edge fare hike for bus passengers is a significant victory for passenger groups and local authorities. The policy will save passengers an estimated £100-£200 per year and make it easier for people to use buses, particularly in rural areas.
Bus passengers to save hundreds as government prevents cliff-edge fare hike
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