BUS chiefs have welcomed the extension of a £2 cap on fares for a further three months.
Worcestershire residents are among those being encouraged to ‘Hop Around for £2’ this spring as the cap is extended to June 30.
Thanks to £75million of extra Government investment, the fare cap means passengers can save on single bus tickets, helping them travel more affordably to education, work and medical appointments.
The offer will apply to more than 5,000 routes in England from more than 140 operators including First Bus in the county.
With the average single local bus ticket costing £2.80, passengers can save almost a third of the ticket price and more than 75 per cent on some of the longest trips.
The scheme, which began in January this year, has already seen an uptick in passenger numbers This extension will continue to encourage greater bus use and is expected to take up to four million cars off the road, supporting ambitions for greener journeys by minimising pollution and tackling congestion across the country.
David Bradford, managing director of National Express West Midlands, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Government recognises the important role bus services have on local communities, not only to help people travel more affordably or access work, but also reduces congestion and emissions on our roads.
“The £2 fare scheme has been warmly received by our customers with more than three million passengers taking advantage of cheaper bus fares since January, and we hope news of this extension will encourage even more people to ditch their cars and switch to buses to get around.”
Andrew Stokes, VisitEngland director, said: “With spring upon us and as we head towards the Easter break the decision to extend the fare cap is welcome news, supporting people to get out and take day trips and mini-breaks across England, by keeping the cost of transport down.
“Enabling people to get out and explore England affordably this spring also gives families the chance to make great memories together, and provides tourism and hospitality businesses with a welcome boost as the season gets under way.”
