Young people's discounted bus travel

A new bus ticket for young people aged 16-19 has been launched today offering significant discounted fares across the borough.

The 16-19 bus saver card offers a third off the standard adult fare and is valid on local bus services for journeys that start and/or finish within Cheshire East at any time. Care leavers in Cheshire East aged 16-22 are also entitled to the pass, which will provide them with free travel on local bus services.

The scheme is supported by the government-funded Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) which has come from the Department for Transport (DfT), to support increased bus service provision and passenger numbers within Cheshire East.

To receive their pass, young people will be able to apply online through a portal on the Cheshire East Council website, to confirm proof of identity and age. The only qualifier other than age is that they are a Cheshire East resident.

A smartcard pass will be sent to them, which they will need to present on the bus each time they travel to receive their reduced adult single fare. Care leavers will receive free travel on presenting their pass to drivers.

The initial trial scheme will last for two years and passes are valid until 31 October 2026 or the day before the pass holder s 20th birthday. In the case of care leavers, it is their 22nd birthday.

he scheme is being delivered by the Cheshire East Bus Partnership, and all bus operators providing services in the borough are taking part, with the intention of encouraging more people to travel by bus.

To apply for a 16-19 bus saver card, please visit here