Impact on Islands Communities of Free Bus Travel for Young People Under 22

We asked for your views on whether provision of free bus travel to all young people aged under 22 would have an effect on island communities which is significantly different from the effect on other communities in Scotland, and if so, what measures the Scottish Government might consider to mitigate any adverse effects on island communities in relation to the provision of free bus travel for those aged under 22 specifically. This consultation was undertaken between 24 May 2021 and 21 June 2021.

We received 151 responses from individuals and organisations to the consultation. The majority of these responses supported free bus travel for under 22s noting it would have positive impacts on young people in island communities. However a number raised concerns about its application in island communities. Key issues raised were lack of bus services in island communities; potential loss of revenue for Regional Transport Partnerships and/or Local Authorities; and the scheme only applying to buses and not ferries or air travel. Where permission to publish has been provided, the consultation responses are now available to view online.

The consultation responses were considered as part of the Island Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) that was undertaken in relation to the free bus scheme.  The published ICIA is available at The National Bus Travel Concession Scheme for Young Persons (Scotland) Amendment Order 2021 (transport.gov.scot)