Under leader Zack Polanski, the party is campaigning for a national scheme that would remove bus fares for under-22s across England. It is aimed at cutting travel costs and improving access to education, training and employment.
The proposal would mirror the system already in place in Scotland, where free bus travel is available to people aged 5 to 22. Green figures say a similar approach in England could make a significant difference for young people outside major cities.
If adopted nationally and applied locally, the policy could affect teenagers and young adults across Swindon who rely on buses to reach colleges, workplaces and apprenticeships. Many residents aged 16-22 face high costs when travelling to further education or entry-level jobs.
Supporters within the Green party at Swindon Borough Council say the policy would do more than reduce fares. They argue it could help strengthen the local economy and encourage more sustainable travel.
Cllr Repi Begum said making bus journeys free up to age 22
“would significantly support young people who have recently graduated or are still finding their feet, by enabling them to travel or commute without the added pressure of limited travel budgets.
“It would help build a stronger workforce in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way, as it would allow younger people to travel further afield to access better training opportunities and improved job prospects.”
Tom Butcher, the Green Party leader in Swindon, said the scheme could have a direct impact on education and employment locally.
“free bus travel for under 22s would help young people across Swindon get to school and on to higher education and employment opportunities.
“Whether that’s getting to their local secondary school, such as Kingsdown school in my ward of Lower Stratton, or travelling to either of our New College sites, we must give our young people every chance at a strong start to their adult lives and careers.”
Campaigners say transport costs in Swindon can be a barrier for young people trying to reach colleges, jobs and vocational training. While some concessions exist in other parts of the country, they argue provision outside large cities often remains limited.
Critics of the national proposal have questioned how the scheme would be funded and whether it could put pressure on public transport budgets, particularly in areas with less frequent services.
Green Party figures say increased bus use and wider economic benefits would help offset the costs at both a national and local level.
In Swindon, the debate is expected to grow as local elections approach, with young residents and community groups watching closely to see how transport policy develops and what it could mean for access to work, education and opportunity.
