The Government has announced £2 bus fare cap will be extended for three months to the end of June 2023.  This will be supported by up to £75 million of new funding for bus operators.

Bus fares vary across different parts of the country and between bus operators. The average single fare for a 3-mile journey is estimated at over £2.80, meaning that the cap is saving passengers almost 30% of the price every time they travel.

The Government’s existing £60 million investment to cap single bus fares has already shown early signs of increased bus use, with an independent survey of 1,000 people from passenger watchdog Transport Focus showing 7% of people saying they are using the bus more. During these difficult economic times, these trends already indicate that the government’s support to cap fares is a welcome intervention, helping families, commuters and all passengers to ease the cost of living.

In addition to this funding to keep fares down, the Government have confirmed an additional £80 million from 1 April to 30 June 2023 to protect vital bus services which people rely on.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:

“I welcome the Government’s extension of the £2 cap on bus fares. This will continue to provide direct help to thousands of households across the country, ensuring that everyone can affordably get to work, school, the shops and doctor’s appointments.

“I know people in the High Peak have been feeling the pressure of rising costs this winter, and I have been calling on the Government to provide practical concrete help like this.”