EditorFree bus rides return for Easter as Swansea families urged to “leave the car at home”
Council leader Rob Stewart confirmed the scheme will run across eight days during the school holidays, starting from March 28.
The move follows previous schemes that have already seen more than one million free journeys taken in Swansea.
£450,000 set aside
The council has earmarked £450,000 from this year’s budget to fund not just the Easter offer – but free buses again in the summer and Christmas holidays too.
That means families could continue to benefit from the scheme throughout the year.
Save up to £20 a trip
Rob Stewart said the initiative is designed to ease the pressure on household budgets during what can be an expensive time.
He said families could save up to £20 per trip, encouraging people to ditch the car and spend that money elsewhere instead.
Cllr Stewart said: “Since we launched the offer people have enjoyed more than 1m free bus rides.
“Easter can be an expensive time for everyone but we’re committed to ensuring families in Swansea can save a bit of money on travel costs, leave the car at home and save their petrol money to spend on other things, saving up to £20 a time for family of four.
“The city centre is a great shopping destination in itself for people wanting to take a free trip. But it is also about giving the public the chance to travel all across Swansea, whether it’s to visit family members or just enjoy to what Swansea has to offer.”
Cutting traffic and boosting buses
Cabinet member Andrew Stevens said the scheme also aims to get more people onto public transport.
He added that many residents still rely on cars – and the free travel offer is a chance to get them trying buses for the first time, while also helping reduce congestion on local roads.
“It’s important we support public transport operators in Swansea and do what we can to increase passenger numbers.” Cllr Stevens said.
When are buses free?
Free travel will be available on:
- Saturday 28 March
- Sunday 29 March
- Friday 3 April (Good Friday)
- Saturday 4 April
- Sunday 5 April (Easter Sunday)
- Monday 6 April (Easter Monday)
- Saturday 11 April
- Sunday 12 April
Back again after popular demand
The Easter scheme builds on previous free bus initiatives covered by Swansea Bay News, which proved hugely popular with residents looking to cut costs and explore the city without worrying about fares.
With another school holiday around the corner, council bosses are now hoping even more people will jump on board.
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