Preston Bus has stated it cannot yet confirm whether it will join a new government initiative to cap single fares at £2, citing a lack of information regarding operator reimbursement.
The proposed scheme, set to run throughout 2027 with £400 million in backing, aims to reduce travel costs for passengers. However, the announcement did not specify how individual operators will be compensated for fare reductions.
Preston Bus, which currently charges £3.50 for a standard adult single after leaving a previous £3 national cap scheme in January, acknowledged the potential benefits of the new plan for passengers facing cost-of-living pressures. The company emphasized that fare-cap schemes must be fully funded for operators to participate.
"We have not received any further details" about the reimbursement arrangements, a spokesperson for Preston Bus said, adding that the company would evaluate the plan once that information becomes available. No decision on participation has been made.
The government stated that the return to a £2 cap is expected to particularly assist passengers in rural areas where single fares can be higher. Previously, in February, when Preston Bus exited the £3 scheme, the Department for Transport indicated that the scheme was supported by over £150 million annually to help keep fares low.
This operator also withdrew some off-peak services from Lancashire's £1 evening, Sunday, and bank holiday fare scheme in April. Preston Bus cited that the reimbursement levels provided in 2025 had not continued at the same rate into 2026, alongside rising operational costs.