Passengers across England will continue to ‘Get Around for £2’ and access vital bus services thanks to £500 million in government funding, which will continue to support people with the cost of living and promote stability in the sector. 

The Transport Secretary Mark Harper confirmed £300 million to protect vital routes and improve services until 2025 that people rely on for work, education, medical appointments and shopping.

To help people with cost of living pressures and save on everyday travel costs, the government will also provide up to £200 million to continue capping single bus fares at £2 outside London until the end of October 2023 and then at £2.50 until 30 November 2024 – when the government will review their effectiveness and future bus fares.

The Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that inflation will be halved by the end of this year, and capping fares at £2.50 until November 2024 will create longer-term certainty for bus users over the next year. The fare cap will be reviewed ahead of November 2024.

Rishi Sunak, Prime Minister, said:

"By extending the £2 fare cap, we’re making sure bus travel remains accessible and affordable for everyone while helping to ease cost of living pressures."

Mark Harper, Transport Secretary, said:

"Taking the bus is the most popular form of public transport and millions of people rely on these vital services every day."