Scrapping bus fare cap 'would hit tourism jobs'

Cumbria Tourism said employers were concerned about the potential removal of the bus fare cap

High public transport costs are a barrier to employment in the tourism industry, a business group has warned.

Cumbria Tourism said a survey of its businesses found 80% of employers worried the potential removal of the £3 cap on bus fares would impact their staff's ability to get to work.

"There is concern for employers that if the cap is removed, staff may stop using buses due to cost and this could affect punctuality, job access and reliability," a spokesman said.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said affordable buses were "the lifeblood of communities" and the cap would be in place until the end of 2025.

Previously, the cost of single bus journeys had been capped at £2, rising to £3 in January.

Cumbria Tourism, which represents 4,500 businesses in the area, said the cap had been a "lifeline" for staff who often work in remote hotels and restaurants around the county.

Lesley Townson, who works at Lakeside Hotel, said the cap was a "game changer" as she did not drive.

"If it increased, I'd either have to rely on others to provide lifts or cut back on essentials elsewhere - neither is a great option," she said.

Bus cap incentive

Cumbria Tourism said it had worked with bus providers and councils to make existing buses work for hospitality employees, with the introduction of early morning and later evening services.

The association said its survey also found that 40% of workers had not used buses before the cap was introduced due to high costs.

Kyle Nesbitt, who works at Grasmere Gingerbread, said: "The £3 bus fare makes it possible for me to get to work without it costing a large portion of my income each week."

The DfT said it had put in place a £955m bus funding package to support lower fares.

"Our Bus Services Bill will further empower local councils to take control of their services in ways that work for their communities," a spokesperson said.