WIREDGOV

Minister for Transport Edwina Hart marked the first day of Welsh Government’s new £15million mytravelpass discounted bus travel scheme for young people by handing out the first passes to youngsters at Swansea Bus Station today (Tuesday, 1 September).

Funded by the Welsh Government and developed in partnership with the bus industry and local authorities, the new mytravelpass will entitle young people aged 16 – 18 to a third off bus fare prices anywhere in Wales.

The discount is operational from September 1 and is open to all 110,000 residents aged 16-18 across Wales.

Speaking at the launch in Swansea Bus Station, Mrs Hart said:

“I want to ensure young people are able to access jobs and training opportunities in Wales as easily as possible. Travelling costs can sometimes be a barrier, so this scheme will make it easier and cheaper for 16-18 year olds to travel. It underlines our commitment to supporting our young people into work and education opportunities.

I am very pleased we have been able to deliver this new scheme by working in partnership with the bus industry and local councils. I hope all 16-18 years olds resident in Wales will take advantage of this opportunity and apply for their pass.”

The mytravelpass scheme is being administered for Welsh Government by the not-for -profit company that operates Traveline Cymru.

Managing Director Graham Walter said:

“There are many synergies between mytravelpass and the Traveline Cymru service, and we are pleased to be operating this exciting initiative on behalf of Welsh Government.”

Among the first to receive the discount travel passes were students from Cardiff High School who had participated in the campaign to promote the cards online and on buses.

Related Link: mytravelpass