Young people in Renfrewshire have made more than 10.3 million free bus journeys since Scotland’s under-22 free bus travel scheme was introduced in 2022, according to new figures.
The Scottish Government said 10,339,530 journeys have been made by under-22s in Renfrewshire since the scheme began. In neighbouring East Renfrewshire, the figure stands at 4,107,243.
Combined, that amounts to 14,446,773 journeys across the two council areas.
Across Scotland, more than 310 million free bus journeys have been made by young people since the scheme was introduced in early 2022.
The scheme allows people aged under 22 to travel on most local bus services across Scotland free of charge.
Tom Arthur MSP for Renfrewshire West and Levern Valley welcomed the figures.
He said: “The delivery of 14,446,773 free bus journeys for the under 22’s across Renfrewshire West and Levern Valley is a fantastic achievement, that demonstrates the SNP Government’s commitment to improving mobility for our youngest citizens.
“These free bus passes are a lifeline for many, helping young people access essential services, education, and employment.
“While the UK Labour Government is determined to rob young people of opportunities by committing to Brexit and hiking up tuition fees in England, the SNP Government is supporting our young people through the free bus pass.
“The SNP is committed to continuing to support all of Scotland – and it’s important to celebrate the difference that SNP policies are making.”
According to the Scottish Government, 310,896,482 free bus journeys have been made by under-22s across Scotland since the scheme was introduced.