January 16, 2026 - 349 views
More than two million bus journeys have been taken by young people across Wales since the launch of the Welsh Government’s £1 bus fare scheme last autumn.
The scheme, introduced in September 2025, offers all young people aged 5 to 21 a £1 single fare and a £3 day ticket on participating bus services. It is currently due to run until the end of August 2026 and has been billed as a key measure to tackle the cost of travel for young people, particularly in rural areas.
Speaking while travelling by bus between Llangollen and Wrexham, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates welcomed the take-up.
“It’s fantastic to see so many young people taking advantage of cheaper bus fares. We know that the cost of travel is often a barrier for young people, especially in rural areas, so I am delighted that our investment is making travel as accessible and affordable as possible, with the scheme already making a real difference to young people’s lives across Wales.”
Young people using the scheme say the cheaper fares have helped them stay connected and access education and employment.
Seventeen-year-old Avery Stridgen said the £1 fares have opened up new opportunities.
“The £1 bus fare scheme has opened up more opportunities, enabling me to make and keep social connections and to get back and fore to college. I now use the bus more than I’ve done before and it’s because of these cheaper fares.”
Meanwhile, Liam Lennard, 17, from Prestatyn, said the scheme has made commuting to work more affordable.
“The new scheme has really helped me to get to and from work as I live in Prestatyn and work in Rhyl. My bus usage has increased under this scheme, and I hope to see this become a permanent arrangement.”
The Welsh Government has committed £22 million over two financial years — 2025–26 and 2026–27 — to support the initiative. This includes £15 million secured through a Budget agreement with Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds.
Transport officials say full details of the scheme, including eligible services, are available through Transport for Wales, with the programme forming part of wider efforts to improve access to public transport, reduce living costs and encourage more sustainable travel choices.
