A subsidy scheme for University of St Andrews operated by Stagecoach has passed £500,000 in savings for staff and students since its launch last November.
The landmark figure was breached by the end of August after the 75% bus discount was used by around 1,500 people per month on average. It is available, on peak-time, evening and weekend services, to those who are not eligible for the Scottish Government’s free travel for under-22’s scheme.
The operator says the partnership, which is one of several cost-of-living measures set up by the University, led to a reduction of 448 tonnes of CO2e in its first nine months, due to individuals using the bus instead of the car.
The University’s Chief Operating Officer, Derek Watson, says: “The University places social responsibility at the heart of all it does and it’s right that we should do all we can to support our staff, students and their families through the cost-of-living crisis. The substantial investment we have made in this scheme, working with Stagecoach, has had a hugely positive impact financially and helped us make significant strides towards our ambitious net-zero targets.
“To say we have saved staff and students over half a million pounds is a huge milestone and I’m pleased colleagues and students see the massive value of getting on board with this scheme. I hope more people will see the benefits not only in terms of saving money but also in helping the environment.”
Sarah Elliott, Commercial Director for Stagecoach East Scotland, adds: “The partnership approach between the University of St Andrews and Stagecoach has yielded excellent results in less than a year, showing a real commitment to carbon reduction in the area. Using the bus is already easier on the pocket than paying for fuel, parking and car maintenance costs but the additional savings available through this discount scheme come at a crucial time.”
