Telford & Wrekin Council plans £2 bus fare cap for all local journeys

KEY INFORMATION:

• Telford & Wrekin Council is developing plans to extend the £2 single fare cap to all bus journeys within the borough.
• Currently, the £2 rate only applies to council-operated services, which account for 24% of the local network.
• The proposal is part of the council’s draft 2026/27 Budget, which aims to make travel simpler and more affordable.
• The wider budget includes £437 million in capital investment for roads, homes, and schools.
• Residents are encouraged to share their views on the budget proposals via the council’s website.

Telford & Wrekin Council has announced plans to explore a borough-wide extension of the £2 single fare cap.

This initiative forms a key part of the council’s draft Budget for 2026/27. Currently, the discounted rate only applies to services operated directly by the council. These routes make up approximately 24% of the local network.

The new proposal seeks to create a consistent, low-cost fare for all passengers. This would ensure residents pay no more than £2 for any single journey within the borough, regardless of the operator.

Strengthening public transport links

For the last two years, the council has maintained some of the lowest bus fares in the country on its own routes. Extending this cap to all services is intended to support residents who rely on buses for work, school, and healthcare. The council aims to simplify travel while keeping it affordable during the cost-of-living crisis.

Councillor Ollie Vickers, Cabinet Member for Economy & Transport, said: “We know affordable, reliable transport plays an important role in people’s daily lives. A flat £2 fare across all journeys within Telford and Wrekin would make everyday travel easier and better value for residents across the borough. Buses aren’t just about getting from A to B, they connect people to work, school, healthcare and family. We remain committed to strengthening services across Telford and Wrekin.”

A broader commitment to investment

The fare cap extension sits alongside a wider investment strategy. The proposed 2026/27 Budget commits £150 million to social care. This supports vulnerable children, older adults, and people with disabilities. This spending represents 70p of every £1 the council spends on services.

Additionally, the council plans to deliver £437 million in capital investment. This funding will target resident priorities, including:

• Enhancing bus services and local roads.
• Expanding schools and improving housing.
• Supporting local high streets.

Have your say on the budget

The draft Budget proposals will be considered by the council in the coming weeks. Final details are expected to be confirmed following a meeting of the Full Council. Residents are invited to view the full proposals and share their feedback online at the council's official budget portal.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION: This report is based on official data from Council / Local Authority. Document: Council developing plans to extend £2 bus fare across all bus routes | Newsroom Source Link: https://newsroom.telford.gov.uk/news/council-developing-plans-to-extend-2-bus-fare-across-all-bus-routes

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