All aboard: free bus travel for kids this Summer holiday

Five to 15-year-olds across the country will be able to get around the borough for free this August, helping keep down the cost of the Summer Holidays.

Saving on average between £1 and £2 per journey, there will be a little bit more to spend on an ice cream or a tray of chips on your day out.

The announcement comes following the UK Government’s recent announcement to reduce the rate of VAT on certain children and family attractions – meaning you can enjoy North East Lincolnshire for less.

Councillor Paul Batson, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Housing and Infrastructure, is thrilled by the announcement. “This gives children and families the chance to enjoy their time off without worrying as much about the cost of it all,” he said.

“North East Lincolnshire has plenty to offer and this gives them the chance to get out and see it.”

Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said: “Our team play an essential role in ensuring that local people can get where they need to go, so we are looking forward to welcoming even more passengers on board this August. We’re making it even easier for families to leave the car at home and enjoy a great value day out. This shows how public transport can play an important role in connecting communities with all the fun and popular attractions that our region has to offer, and we hope lots of people will take advantage of this opportunity over the coming weeks.”

However, if you’re over 15, there are still plenty of opportunities to get on the bus for less. For example, if you’re old enough to collect a pension or have a certain disability you can apply for a Concessionary Fares scheme. To sign up, please visit https://www.nelincs.gov.uk/streets-travel-and-parking/bus-pass-concessionary-travel-scheme/

Ultimately, those with a Concessionary Fare Pass can travel across the borough for free at all times of the day. Or, if you’re a member of the new Horizon Youth Zone, you can get the bus for just £1 each way.

For more information and to become a member, visit https://www.horizonyouthzone.org/become-a-member/

Bus travel is also set to get cheaper for everyone from 2027 with the Government announcing they will cap fares at £2 for everyone outside of London from January 1^st to December 31^st – making the bus an even cheaper way to get around town.