Teens get half-price bus ticket
TEENAGERS aged 16 to 18 will soon be able to travel on bus services for half-price in a scheme unveiled by Greater Manchester’s new mayor.
The offer has been agreed by Andy Burnham and bus operators across Manchester – with almost 100,000 young people expected to benefit.
Mr Burnham launched the deal at The Manchester College’s Openshaw Campus yesterday morning, after making the promise he would help youngsters during his mayoral campaign.
It is hoped the fare reduction will make it easier for teenagers to access more work opportunities, training, education and skills.
Youngsters wishing to take up the offer will be required to apply for a personalised 16-18 ‘Get me there’ smartcard, issued by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).
The smartcard will allow teenagers to purchase a new junior day ticket when travelling by bus.
Eligibility to use the tickets will run up to August 31, following the user’s 18th birthday. TfGM will continue to offer a 50 per cent discount on fares for chil- dren aged 16 and under. The new ticket and smartcard will be available from September, with applications being accepted from August onwards.
Mr Burnham said: “Throughout the mayoral campaign, I promised to help our young people get on in life, and this is the first step in delivering on that.
“We will only build a strong and prosperous Greater Manchester by giving every young person hope at the end of school and help to take up new opportunities.
“The cost of travel is a major barrier to young people’s progress and I am determined to remove it. I look forward to working together with bus operators in the future to improve the transport offer in Greater Manchester.”
Phil Medlicott, managing director at First Manchester, said: “As one of the major bus operators in Greater Manchester we’re pleased to support this announcement as we continue to work in partnership to deliver reliable and value-formoney bus services across the region.
“This news supports our continued aim to ensure that buses are accessible to everyone.”
More details of the scheme are set to be shared with schools and colleges ahead of the summer holidays.