Children under the age of 16 will be able to ride Nottingham’s buses without charge this summer in a significant change for passengers.
Nottingham City Transport has confirmed participation in the Government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme this August, meaning children aged five to 15 will access the bus network for free.
Throughout August, the Government is covering the cost of free bus journeys for young people on routes throughout England, giving Nottinghamshire households greater affordability when visiting local attractions this season.
With VAT reduced on entry to venues including soft play centres and museums, the initiative aims to enable families to experience more during the summer months.
The programme, introduced by the Government in May, represents a temporary reduction in tax on typical family summer expenses such as children’s menu items, tickets for youngsters and families, and entry to various attractions.
Councillor Patience Ifediora, Executive Member for Regional Development, Growth and Transport at Nottingham City Council, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, hoping it would allow families to discover their city and local sites while enjoying a wonderful summer holiday.
The complimentary travel applies solely to children aged five to 15, with those under 11 needing to travel alongside an adult.
To obtain free travel, passengers should request an August Child Free Single ticket upon boarding the bus.
Each child will receive a ticket that must be kept for the duration of their journey.
Regular travellers using weekly or monthly passes are advised against purchasing these for August while the free travel initiative is active.
Those possessing a bus pass that already covers August may request a reimbursement by getting in touch with NCT.
David Astill, NCT managing director, commented that Nottingham City Transport is delighted to provide complimentary travel for children during this year’s summer school holiday period.
NCT operates services to several local destinations including Wollaton Park, Colwick Woods, Gedling Country Park and Nottingham Beach, all reachable via the company’s frequent bus network.
Bus drivers may request proof of age from passengers to confirm eligibility for complimentary travel. Anyone the driver considers to be 16 or over will be required to pay a fare.