From 1 November 2023 we're rolling out £1.50 single bus fares for young people across Derby and Derbyshire.
Initially the £1.50 fare will be available on operators who currently accept b_line cards, and will include travel on direct services into neighbouring local authority areas. Other operators will be joining the scheme soon, with the plan to offer b_line through Mango in the very near future – that means operators like Trentbarton, Notts and Derby, and TM Travel will be part of the scheme too.
Young people, aged 11 to 19, will need a b_line card to be able to get the discounted fare. The cards are free and available through either our or the city council websites. Sign up for a b_line card.
The b_line card is a cut-price travel discount and library card for those aged 11 to 19. It is for young people in school, college, on a training course or in an apprenticeship.
Our Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Cupit, said:
“The bus provides a convenient and safe way for young people to get to where they need to be, whether that be school, an apprenticeship, their first job and for leisure journeys too.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer them a discounted fare, making these important journeys more affordable. We hope that this reduced rate also helps young people to get out and about and socialise, too.”
Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability Councillor Carmel Swan said:
“In light of the cost of living crisis and the impact which this has had on young people and their families, it’s essential that we provide them with access to affordable transport.
“Reduced fares will not only provide young people across Derbyshire with greater travel choices but also support our sustainability targets through a reduction in the number of vehicles on the roads.”
Our and Derby City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan will fund the scheme. We're both collaborating with local operators to provide the £1.50 discounted fare until October 2024.
The discounted tickets are also available for bus journeys that cross into other neighbouring areas, like Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, and Cheshire. The discount will not be available on late night bus services, dedicated school services, event and tourist buses.