Tuesday 08-01-2019 - 13:22

September will see an introduction of a free bus pass for 16-18 year olds as part of a two year trial.

These new “Opportunity Passes” will be to ensure that young people are not limited by financial barriers and reduces the financial burden for them traveling to study or work. The passes will also grant a free or reduced entry to culture or leisure venues that are participating in the scheme.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, announced them during his ‘Future of Greater Manchester’ speech on January 7th as part of the goal to accelerate the progress of Manchester to be a cleaner, greener and fairer city.

During his speech, he also revealed the plans to further develop Manchester’s public transport systems including new Metrolink stops and rail stations, as well as new Park & Ride services and an investment of £160 million in a world-class cycling and walking network.

Mr Burnham hopes these new and accessible transport options will open up a future in the city to young people, he said “the message I am sending them today is clear and direct: This is your city. Explore it, own it, build it. We believe in you and we will back you.”

There are currently no confirmed plans as to how these projects will be funded and no definite insight into the full extent of the cost, as the usage figures of the new services are unknown.

"This scheme will put pounds back into the pockets of students in Greater Manchester and make commuting into University more accessible for degree apprenticeship students," said Wellbeing Officer Andy Harmon. Anna Welsh, Societies and Development officer also commented: "This is an amazing opportunity for our students to reduce their carbon footprint and aid them in finding greener ways of travelling to and from campus."