Record number of young people sign up for £1 bus fare scheme
Record number of young people sign up for £1 bus fare scheme
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A record number of young people across Wales are taking advantage of cheaper bus fares, with more than 26,000 new applications for the Welsh Government’s MyTravelPass since the launch of its new £1 fare scheme in July.
The initiative, which currently offers reduced fares for 16–21-year-olds, has seen applications surge by 38%, signalling strong demand for affordable public transport among young people.
From 3 November, the pilot will be expanded to include children aged 5–15, allowing even more young passengers to benefit from the same low fares. Unlike older travellers, this younger group will not need to show a MyTravelPass when boarding the bus.
The £1 single fare and £3 day ticket offer unlimited travel on participating bus services across Wales, providing an affordable option for young people to reach education, training, employment, and leisure opportunities.
The Welsh Government says the scheme is part of its wider strategy to encourage public transport use, reduce carbon emissions, and tackle poverty.
Speaking at Rhyl bus station, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said the response to the scheme has exceeded expectations.
“I am delighted that the scheme is already proving to be popular with young people across Wales.
“Cutting the cost of travel for young people is vitally important in our ambition to provide better transport for all and encourage more people to choose public transport.
“We know the scheme is making a real difference for 16–21-year-olds and with the pilot being extended to 5–15-year-olds next month even more young people will get the chance to benefit from cheaper fares.”
The £1 bus fare initiative is being funded with a total of £22 million over two financial years (2025–26 and 2026–27), including £15 million secured through a Budget agreement with Welsh Liberal Democrats Leader Jane Dodds.
Running from September 2025 to August 2026, the pilot forms part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to make public transport more affordable and accessible for young people while supporting Wales’ net zero ambitions.
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