Millions of residents across England are reaping the benefits of reduced bus fares in 2023, thanks to the government's innovative measures aimed at making public transportation more affordable and preserving essential services. Recent statistics released by the Department of Transport (DfT) on September 21, 2023, reveal that bus fares in England (excluding London) have seen a notable 7.4% decrease from June 2022 to June 2023. This reduction is primarily attributable to the extension of the "Get Around for £2" scheme.
The £2 fare cap has significantly lowered travel costs, particularly in rural areas where buses play a key role in facilitating transportation. The average fare in rural and non-metropolitan parts of England has dropped by an impressive 10.8%, providing much-needed financial relief for residents.
When considering inflation, local bus fares outside of London for April to June 2023 are now comparable to those in 2007. This remarkable achievement in fare stabilisation has been met with praise from Roads Minister Richard Holden, who emphasised the positive impact on the populace.
"Our 'Get Around for £2' scheme has slashed overall bus fares for millions across England, as we continue to help people save money on travel, boost transport connections, and grow the economy. Whether you want to visit loved ones, head to work, or attend a medical appointment, taking the bus continues to be a vital link for people to get around."
Originally scheduled to end on 31 March 2023, the "Get Around for £2" scheme has received an extension until 31 October 2023, and will then continue at a slightly increased fare of £2.50 until the end of November 2024, thanks to a substantial £200 million government investment.
The £2 bus fare cap is complemented by a recent announcement of £300 million in funding to prevent bus route cuts and enhance service quality through 2025. This brings the total government expenditure aimed at keeping fares low and supporting buses to an impressive £3.5 billion since 2020.
DfT has allocated £129 million to introduce hundreds more zero-emission buses, with an initial £25 million specifically for rural communities. This represents a substantial investment in sustainable transportation, bringing the total government commitment to new zero-emission buses to nearly £500 million.
The government's efforts to boost rural communities extend beyond transportation. In June 2023, they unveiled a comprehensive plan called "Unleashing Rural Opportunity," focusing on housing, transport, digital connectivity, and job creation. The initiative was designed to stimulate economic growth and create better-paying jobs across rural England. Rural areas already contribute significantly to England's economy, accounting for 15% of the national GDP, which equates to over £250 billion. The program aims to unlock even more growth potential in these areas.
The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has also been diligently "rural-proofing" government policies, ensuring they effectively serve rural communities. Lord Benyon, Minister for Rural Affairs, emphasised the importance of bus services in supporting rural economies and communities, stating, "By easing the cost of transport in some of our most remote areas, we can help bring people together and build on the wider work we are doing to help rural communities thrive."
The Government is committed to affordable bus travel and rural development through the impressive reduction in bus fares and substantial investments in sustainable transportation. These measures not only benefit residents but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of rural England as a whole.
Roxana Hurjui, Bus Centre of Excellence