‘A big help’ - Sheffield residents share their thoughts on Andy Burnham’s new £2 bus fare cap
Single bus fares across England will be capped at £2 from January, Andy Burnham has announced
Andy Burnham has kicked off his time in office by announcing a new policy that will see bus fares capped at £2 from January.
The new Prime Minister’s announcement comes as part of a wider blitz of policies to give people “breathing space” as he attempts to try and tackle the current cost of living crisis.
“Good, affordable transport links are an essential. No one should be priced out of those and left behind,” Mr Burnham said.
“But for too long people have said that cheaper transport isn’t an option. I don’t accept that. I’ve done it before and I will do it again now: a £2 cap on bus fares for millions across the country.
“Lower fares will help people get to where they need to – giving them breathing space to help with the cost of living.”
The policy has been met with mixed reviews, The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander praised the decision, describing it as a “signal of intent”, but others such as Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride have been critical accused Mr Burnham of wanting “to go back to the 1970s” while warning Chancellor of the Exchequer John Heeley that he has a huge job ahead of him.
Star readers have shared their thoughts on the policy and how it will impact them in their day-to-day lives.
John Crofts said: “I’m a bus driver, I don’t think it will make any difference to passenger numbers but at least it will be cheaper for people to travel so I welcome it.”
James Daniel hailed Burnham’s decision to introduce bus fare caps in Manchester and is also welcoming it in the Steel City. He said: “Definitely it worked in Manchester! Now they love him there!”
Julie Maiden added: “I catch the bus to work and back. I think it’s a good idea. Some prices here are ridiculous.”
Debbie Martin said: “Yes, it's a big help for those on low incomes.”
Tom Mead was less sure on the idea, adding that he feels the big issue that needs tackled is the regularity of the buses.
He said: “Maybe, but the regularity/availability of buses is the main point, rather than the cost of a specific journey.”
Ashley Thomas Nicholson added: “It’s help and a step in the right direction.”
Wendy Howson added: “Maybe, but I just think they need to arrive on time more often.”
Helen Boo Shaw said: “Yes. Right now it's cheaper for me and my partner to taxi to and from town together than it is to get a bus. That shouldn't be a thing.”
Ray Smart said: “Yes, I hope so well done Andy.”
John Ball commented: “It will for me definitely. This is affordable and less cars on the road is necessary.”
Bridget Kelly agreed. She added: “Yes I do and it will help families with older kids. It costs them a fortune to use public transport.”