Councillor Diogo Rodrigues, the Conservative Spokesman for Transport & Digital, successfully proposed a motion on behalf of the Conservative group to establish an affordable Somerset-wide discounted bus pass for young people aged 16 to 25. The motion was passed by the full council, reflecting the united commitment to improve access to public transport for the county's youth.
Supported by the findings of the Bus Service Improvement Plan survey, which revealed that cost was the primary deterrent for 38% of 16 to 25-year-olds in utilizing local bus services, Councillor Rodrigues emphasized the need for simplified and accessible bus travel options.
By introducing a single county-wide youth bus pass, the proposed initiative seeks to address the concerns raised by young people around affordability and accessibility, and align with the council's commitment to a greener and more sustainable transport system.
Also emphasized were the social benefits of affordable and accessible bus transport for young people, particularly those living in rural communities who often face social isolation. The youth bus pass initiative would provide reliable means for young individuals to connect with education, employment, and social activities, fostering community cohesion and breaking down barriers of isolation.
Councillor Rodrigues expressed optimism about the recent government-backed reduced bus fare scheme, which supports the motion's objectives. With the government's commitment to investing £300 million to protect bus services until 2025, the long-term sustainability of a youth bus pass initiative becomes even more viable, encouraging greater participation from bus operators.
Now, it's in the hands of the Liberal Democrat-run Somerset Council to deliver on this promise and make bus travel simpler and more affordable for our young people. With our successful motion, Somerset Conservatives are leading the way towards simpler, greener, and more affordable bus travel in our county.
