The £2 bus fare cap is saving folk across the Highlands and Islands an average of £7.32 on every single bus journey.
The pilot scheme by the Scottish Government was first introduced in the Highlands & Islands, then expanded to other parts of Scotland. It has delivered significant savings for passengers while helping to increase bus usage across the region.
Commenting, Highlands & Islands SNP MSP Maree Todd said:
“While Andy Burnham introduces miniscule savings on the cost of gherkins, the SNP is putting money directly back into people’s pockets through the £2 bus fare cap
“Passengers are saving on average £7.32 per single journey which can make a real difference, particularly for low-income households.”
Bus operator Ember has reported a 10-15% increase in passenger numbers across the Highlands and Argyll & Bute since the fare cap came into effect.
Meanwhile, Highland Council figures covering the period from 20 July to 16 August show that 7,387 passengers used services, representing an 83% increase compared with the average monthly total before the cap was introduced.
Figures from HITRANS also show more than one million journeys have been made this summer.
Maree Todd MSP added:
“The success of the £2 fare cap is about more than just lower fares. It is encouraging more people to choose public transport, helping to reduce emissions and strengthen the resilience of the bus network across our rural and island communities.
“I hope that, as passenger numbers continue to grow, we will see further opportunities to strengthen and expand local bus networks and improve connectivity across the Highlands & Islands.”
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