I am delighted that the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has delivered on his pledge on delivering free bus travel for 16-18 years-olds in Greater Manchester.  This will begin in September 2019 in the form of ‘Our Pass‘, which will allow those aged 16-18 years to travel free and explore all that Greater Manchester has to offer.

‘Our Pass’ will also provide direct access to a range of opportunities for young people available within Greater Manchester.  Over the initial trial period of the scheme, these opportunities will include anything from tickets for sports, music, culture and leisure attractions, to career events and taster days.  This is the best opportunity for our young people to broaden their horizons and minds amd provide a chance for owners of the ‘Our Pass’ to gain a new hobby.

Applications for ‘Our Pass’ will become live on 1 July 2019 and young people can start using the cards in September 2019.  If you are 16-18 and have a permanent address in Bolton then you are eligible to apply for this for free.

It is very pleasing to see this initiative, which Andy Burnham made a key part of his mayoral campaign, become a reality.  It is also great to see that it will have a positive impact on young people in my constituency.  I hope these sort of initiatives can be brought forth soon into a Labour government so that we can boost bus networks and continue to benefit the people of Bolton.