Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that single bus fares across England will be capped at £2 starting in January. The measure is backed by £454 million in funding, with £400 million coming from switching international climate finance investments to loans.
The current nationwide cap is £3, which was set to remain until the end of March 2027. However, some areas, including London and Greater Manchester—where Burnham previously introduced a £2 cap as mayor—already have lower top rates for single tickets. The new policy will bring the £2 limit to the rest of England.
Burnham said the move is aimed at making public transport more affordable for passengers. The funding will help bus operators cover the difference between the capped fare and the usual ticket price.
The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to support cost-of-living challenges. The change is expected to benefit millions of bus users across the country, particularly in rural and suburban areas where fares have been higher.
Critics have questioned the long-term sustainability of the cap, but the government says the funding package ensures the measure can be maintained. Further details on implementation are expected in the coming months.