YOUNG people in Somerset could soon benefit from cheaper bus travel after the unitary authority passed a motion proposed by a Conservative councillor.

Cllr Rodrigues, who is the Conservative spokesperson for transport and digital, proposed the motion at a full council meeting held in Bridgwater on May 24.

His motion called for the introduction of a new bus pass specifically for people aged 16 to 25.

The motion was passed by the full council, which Cllr Rodrigues says reflects the united commitment to improve access to public transport for the county's youth.

Supported by the findings of the Bus Service Improvement Plan survey, which revealed that cost was the primary deterrent for 38 per cent of 16 to 25-year-olds in utilising local bus services, cllr Rodrigues emphasised the need for simplified and accessible bus travel options.

By introducing a single county-wide youth bus pass, the proposed initiative seeks to address the concerns raised by young people around affordability and accessibility, and align with the council's commitment to a greener and more sustainable transport system.

Also emphasised were the social benefits of affordable and accessible bus transport for young people, particularly those living in rural communities who often face social isolation.

The youth bus pass initiative would provide reliable means for young individuals to connect with education, employment, and social activities, fostering community cohesion and breaking down barriers of isolation.

CllrRodrigues expressed optimism about the recent government-backed reduced bus fare scheme, which supports the motion's objectives.

With the government's commitment to investing £300 million to protect bus services until 2025, the long-term sustainability of a youth bus pass initiative becomes even more viable, encouraging greater participation from bus operators.