Bus fare cap extended until end of June

The Department for Transport has announced that the £2 bus fare cap has been extended until the end of June.

£75 million has been set aside to provide discounted bus travel for another three months across more than 5,000 routes.

The scheme is being promoted with the tagline 'Hop Around for £2'.

The programme began in January and has seen an increase in passenger numbers. The extension is expected to take 4 million cars of the road.

The cap applies to journeys such as Plymouth to Exeter, which is £11.20 full price and Leeds to Scarborough which is normally £15.

Roads minister Richard Holden said: "Bus travel should be accessible and affordable for everyone. We know that people are struggling with rising costs, which is why we’re extending the £2 bus fare cap and continuing to put money back into passengers’ pockets.

"This will help to ensure people can get around easily, no matter where they live – connecting them with work, education, doctors’ appointments as well as friends and families – in turn strengthening communities and growing local economies."

Graham Vidler, chief executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: "The continuation of the £2 fare cap is a welcome boost for passengers during a cost-of-living crisis, reminding people buses are a stress-free, affordable and environmental option for work, education, appointments, leisure or to see loved ones.

"Alongside low fares, passengers need the government to continue to invest in bus services to help maintain connectivity across England, no matter where you live."