West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed the news that, after much campaigning in Westminster, the Government’s £2 Bus Fare cap is to be extended to the 30th June 2023. The cap on single fares across over 4000 routes in the country, including many in West Dorset was due to run until 30th March, but a “£155 million boost from the Government announced on Monday 20th February has now allowed this scheme to continue to the end of June.
The Local MP said; “this is good news for communities across West Dorset. I have long argued that significant steps were needed from the Government to foster increased bus usage after the cliff-edge fall in demand throughout the covid pandemic. The Government is now recognising the pressure I have been applying to encourage the rejuvenation of rural bus services with this much needed boost”
It is envisaged that the scheme will increase bus usage amongst communities, helping to safeguard the longevity of existing services and potentially building the evidence base for expansion or creation of new additional routes in areas with the most demand.
Mr Loder continued; “I would encourage everyone to take full advantage and make the most of this boost”.
