Welsh Labour’s manifesto pledge to cap single bus fares at £2 and introduce 100 new routes has been welcomed by Bus Users UK’s Director for Wales, Barclay Davies.
The fare cap would be applied to passengers aged 22 to 59 if the party retains control of the Senedd in the elections in May, Transport Secretary Ken Skates has said.
Mr Davies says such a measure could boost connectivity and increase bus patronage.
However, he has highlighted that Labour is currently behind in the polls in Wales and he would also like to see more detail on how the proposed 100 new routes would be identified.
The £2 bus fare cap would not come into force until April 2027.
Mr Davies says: “If properly funded and thoughtfully implemented, a fare cap could play an important role in reversing declining bus use.
“By encouraging occasional and new passengers, it has the potential to grow overall patronage and strengthen the long-term viability of bus services, particularly in towns and suburban areas where demand is especially price-sensitive.
The Welsh Government already subsidises a pilot scheme offering under-22s a £1 single fare cap, while over-60s are eligible for free travel there.
England has a £3 single bus fare cap, while Scotland has just begun a year-long pilot offering a £2 fare for specific communities.
He adds: “More affordable bus travel can also support wider policy goals. Reducing car dependency helps to ease congestion and lower emissions, while improved bus services enhance social inclusion for those who do not drive or do not have access to a car.
“In this context, a fare cap is not simply a transport measure or an additional call on public finances, but an investment in public health, local economies and environmental outcomes.
“From our perspective at Bus Users UK, whoever forms the next Welsh Government will have an opportunity to deliver positive and progressive reform of bus services. A £2 fare cap, as part of a wider, properly resourced strategy to strengthen public transport, rather than as a standalone headline, offers Wales the chance to make buses fairer, simpler and more appealing for everyone.”
