Bus Fare Scheme Saved: Affordable Travel Continues for Young People in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Published on July 23, 2025

Public transport fare calculations can be a real barrier for people looking to make everyday travel choices, particularly for young people and visitors when they’re in unfamiliar places. Aware of this, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) has now extended its hugely popular Tiger pass bus fare scheme to March 31, 2026, giving a much-needed financial boost and increasing independence for the under-25s.

Ensuring Affordable Travel for Young People

Since its introduction in May 2024, the Tiger pass initiative has allowed individuals under 25 years old to enjoy bus journeys for just £1 each way. Over the past year, this scheme has been remarkably popular, facilitating approximately 1.8 million journeys and proving critical for daily commutes, leisure trips, and tourism activities within the region.

At a recent meeting, CPCA Mayor Paul Bristow emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting its alignment with broader goals of affordable and sustainable public transport. Initially, funding for the Tiger passes was due to expire by November, but the recent extension ensures continuity and stability, providing young residents and visitors certainty regarding their travel budget through early 2026.

Changes to Adult Fare Caps

To finance the continued success of the Tiger pass, CPCA made the difficult decision to remove the adult local fare cap, previously priced at £2.50 per single journey, effective from October 31. This adjustment will see fares increase to £3, thus freeing up £1.4 million to maintain the discounted rates for younger travelers. Although challenging, this strategic shift underscores the authority’s dedication to prioritizing youth mobility and affordability.

Efforts Toward Permanent Implementation

The unanimous board decision also included plans to investigate avenues to make the Tiger pass a permanent fixture in regional public transport. This involves assessing long-term funding strategies, ensuring sustainable financial support, and making it a cornerstone of regional mobility initiatives.

Labour representatives proposed reallocating surplus funds from other budgetary lines to maintain the adult fare cap. However, this alternative was not supported, with board members ultimately favoring the original motion to safeguard the youth fare discount scheme.

Adjustments in Bus Service Routes

During the meeting, board members also decided to revise existing bus services to optimize efficiency and coverage. New routes between Littleport to Cambridge (route number nine) and Ramsey to Peterborough (route number 31) were prioritized. To accommodate funding for these services, certain less utilized routes—including the South Cambridgeshire DRT, route 15 from Haslingfield to Royston, and route 8A from March to Cottenham—will be discontinued.

Positive Implications for Tourists and Local Businesses

Tourists traveling in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough will undoubtedly benefit from these affordable travel opportunities. With easier access to historical sites, vibrant town centers, and leisure destinations, the Tiger pass promotes regional exploration and supports local hospitality and retail sectors.

For businesses, particularly those relying on tourism and young customer bases, the continuation of the Tiger pass is expected to stimulate footfall, encourage local spending, and strengthen economic resilience post-pandemic.

Essential Travel Tips for Visitors

Tourists and travelers planning their journeys in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough should consider the following tips to maximize their travel experiences:

• Budget Planning: Leverage the Tiger pass if under 25 to significantly reduce travel costs within the region.
• Route Awareness: Regularly check updated bus routes and schedules available on the CPCA and local authority websites to avoid travel disruptions.
• Local Exploration: Use the affordable fares to explore lesser-known attractions and experience authentic local culture.
• Environmentally Friendly: Opting for buses supports sustainability and reduces your carbon footprint.
• Stay Informed: Visit official websites for real-time updates, ensuring seamless travel and avoiding inconveniences due to route changes.

Tourist-Friendly Accommodations and Dining Options

Tourists planning extended visits can consider staying at well-regarded accommodations, including:

• Hilton Cambridge City Centre: Central location ideal for sightseeing.
• The Bull Hotel, Peterborough: Offers excellent comfort and convenience.
• Gonville Hotel, Cambridge: Luxurious stays near historical attractions.
• Oliver Cromwell Hotel, March: Ideal base for exploring local areas.

Local dining highlights include:

• Fitzbillies, Cambridge: Iconic bakery and cafe renowned for its sweet treats.
• Prévost Restaurant, Peterborough: Fine dining with modern British cuisine.
• The Hole in the Wall, Cambridge: Cozy atmosphere and hearty British dishes.
• The Chequers, Cottenham: Traditional pub dining experience.

Encouraging Community and Visitor Connectivity

Although the Tiger pass scheme is continuing into the next academic year and there are plans to make it permanent both for students and for young people aged 16-21 this development overall follows the trend across the UK where routes that are not commercially viable are either lost or placed under threat. The continued and plans for permanency of Tiger pass sit alongside Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s own aim to encourage sustainable and affordable travel. Projects like these help our young citizens, as well as visitors to this bustling area, to live life to its fullest. Accessible and inexpensive modes of transportation make this tantalizing destination affordable and enriching for everyone!