A Wiltshire MP has voiced strong opposition to the recent government decision to raise the nationwide bus fare cap from £2 to £3, warning it could have devastating consequences for rural communities already facing limited transport options.
Sarah Gibson, Liberal Democrat MP for Chippenham, criticised the move and expressed concern over reports that Transport Minister Heidi Alexander has not committed to securing the scheme’s future. The original £2 fare cap was introduced to help keep travel affordable amid rising living costs, but the increase has been dubbed an “effective bus tax” by Liberal Democrats.
Recent discussions suggest the government may replace the universal fare cap with a more “targeted” approach, but Gibson argues this will disproportionately harm Wiltshire residents who depend heavily on local bus services for essential daily travel, including hospital visits.
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“The bus fare cap and quality of bus routes matter greatly to people in Wiltshire,” Gibson explained. “With many of my constituents needing to stretch their budgets further, this fare increase hits the most vulnerable who rely on buses for their everyday needs.”
She highlighted that for many in her constituency, using public transport to reach key healthcare facilities such as the Royal United Hospital or Great Western Hospital can take well over an hour. Scrapping the fare cap entirely would exacerbate these challenges.
Gibson called on the government to reconsider its decision and invest in bolstering rural bus services before it’s too late. In an appeal to Minister Heidi Alexander, she invited her to visit Wiltshire and witness firsthand how affordable, accessible bus travel is vital for local communities.
“The government must change course and support struggling local economies by investing in bus routes on the brink of collapse,” Gibson urged.
