While progress is being made on the Bus Services Act 2025, Bus Users UK has questioned whether the ambition matches the urgency, as Government rejects calls for free bus travel for the under 22s in England.
According to the charity, the announcement is a missed opportunity to:
• Support young people’s access to jobs, training and education, which the Transport Committee identified as being hindered by poor connectivity
• Encourage modal shift and reinvigorate bus use at a time when journeys are falling and fares are rising
• And level the playing field for younger travellers, particularly those facing cost-of-living pressures and living in rural or underserved areas.
Commenting on the news, Lydia Horbury, Chief Executive of Bus Users UK said:
“Investing in young people’s mobility is smart long-term transport policy. It builds a future passenger habit, supports social inclusion and strengthens local economies.
“The conversation on mobility justice needs to continue, especially for younger travellers, people with disabilities, those in rural areas and communities that are too often left behind. We will continue to campaign for affordable and, for those who need it most free and fair, access to transport.”
(Pic: Yay Images)
