Every young person under the age of 22 in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse will benefit from free bus travel from 31st January 2022 after an announcement by the SNP Scottish Government.
The announcement was made by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and meets a key manifesto pledge by the SNP in the May elections.
This will mean that young people in South Lanarkshire and Scotland will have their opportunities to learn, work and travel opened up by the scheme.
Research from Transport Scotland has revealed that 70% of young people would use the bus more often if it was free.
Commenting, SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse Christina McKelvie said:
“The SNP Scottish Government is once again making an investment in our young people’s future. By making bus travel free for U22s in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse and across Scotland, opportunities for young people to work, travel and study are being opened up for them.
“Travelling by bus is one of the most environmentally friendly way to get across the country and research shows that young people recognise the vital role public transport will play in hitting our climate change targets.
“This move will not only be vital in our journey to net zero, but will also take pressure off young people and their families’ finances.
“Once again this is a demonstration of how the SNP Scottish Government continues to support young people in the Constituency and across Scotland have the best possible start in life.”