N※N

New call for cheaper public transport to ease cost of living on households

The article titled "New call for cheaper public transport as campaigners say fares are pricing people out" was published on the *Daily Record* website on December 17, 2024. Written by Linda Howard, it discusses a pressing issue in Scotland regarding the rising cost of public transportation and its impact on accessibility and affordability for everyday commuters. The piece highlights a renewed push by campaigners, particularly from the Get Glasgow Moving group, for more affordable public transport fares, arguing that the current pricing structure is exclusionary and disproportionately affects low-income individuals. The article also delves into broader systemic issues within Scotland's public transport network, including fare disparities, lack of integration, and the need for public ownership to address these challenges. Below is an extensive summary of the content, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the key points, arguments, and context presented in the article.

The central theme of the article revolves around the escalating cost of public transport in Scotland, which campaigners argue is "pricing people out" of using essential services. The Get Glasgow Moving campaign group is at the forefront of this issue, advocating for a fairer and more affordable fare system. They contend that the current pricing model is unsustainable for many Scots, particularly those on lower incomes who rely on buses, trains, and subways for daily commuting, accessing employment, education, and healthcare. The campaigners emphasize that high fares are not just a financial burden but also a barrier to social inclusion, as they limit mobility for those who cannot afford private transport alternatives like cars. This point is underscored by the broader societal implications of unaffordable transport, such as reduced access to opportunities and increased isolation for vulnerable communities.

One of the specific grievances highlighted in the article is the disparity in fare structures across different regions and modes of transport in Scotland. For instance, the piece notes that bus fares in Glasgow and surrounding areas have risen significantly in recent years, often outpacing inflation and wage growth. This has led to situations where a short bus journey can cost as much as several pounds, a price that many find prohibitive for regular use. The article contrasts this with other European cities where public transport is heavily subsidized, resulting in much lower fares or even free services in some cases. Campaigners argue that Scotland should follow suit by implementing a more progressive fare system that prioritizes accessibility over profit. They point to models like those in Luxembourg, which became the first country in the world to offer free public transport to all residents in 2020, as a potential blueprint for reform.

The article also touches on the fragmented nature of Scotland's public transport system as a contributing factor to high fares and inefficiency. Unlike some countries with integrated transport networks where a single ticket can be used across buses, trains, and trams, Scotland's system is often described as disjointed. Different operators set their own fares, and there is little coordination between services, leading to higher costs for passengers who need to switch between modes of transport. Get Glasgow Moving and other advocacy groups are calling for a more unified approach, including the introduction of a single ticketing system that would simplify travel and reduce costs. They argue that such a system would not only make public transport more user-friendly but also encourage greater usage, thereby reducing car dependency and contributing to environmental goals like lowering carbon emissions.

Another significant point raised in the article is the debate over public versus private ownership of transport services. Many of Scotland's bus and rail services are operated by private companies, which campaigners claim prioritize profit over public good. This profit-driven model, they argue, is a key reason behind high fares and inconsistent service quality. The article references the Scottish Government's recent moves towards greater public control, such as the renationalization of ScotRail in 2022, as a step in the right direction. However, campaigners assert that more needs to be done, particularly with bus services, which remain largely privatized. They advocate for full public ownership of all transport modes, suggesting that this would allow for reinvestment of revenue into lower fares and improved services rather than shareholder payouts.

The article also provides context on the broader economic and social challenges facing Scotland, which exacerbate the impact of high transport costs. With the cost-of-living crisis still affecting many households, discretionary spending on transport is often the first to be cut, leading to reduced mobility and economic participation. The piece cites statistics and anecdotal evidence to illustrate how fare increases have forced some individuals to forgo essential trips, such as visiting family or attending medical appointments. This is particularly acute in rural areas, where public transport options are already limited, and the cost of alternative travel, such as taxis, is prohibitively expensive. Campaigners argue that affordable transport is not just a convenience but a fundamental right that underpins social equity and economic opportunity.

In response to these concerns, the article notes that the Scottish Government has taken some measures to address transport affordability. For example, the introduction of free bus travel for under-22s and over-60s has been widely praised as a positive step. However, campaigners argue that these initiatives do not go far enough, as they exclude a significant portion of the working-age population who are also struggling with fares. There is a call for a more comprehensive policy that includes fare caps or subsidies for all users, regardless of age, to ensure that no one is left behind. The article suggests that funding for such measures could be sourced from reallocating budgets currently spent on road infrastructure or through progressive taxation models that place a greater burden on wealthier individuals and corporations.

The piece also explores the environmental dimension of the transport affordability debate. Campaigners and policymakers alike recognize that encouraging public transport use is critical to meeting Scotland's ambitious net-zero targets. High fares, however, act as a deterrent, pushing people towards private car use, which contributes to congestion and pollution. The article quotes representatives from Get Glasgow Moving who argue that cheaper fares would not only benefit individuals but also align with broader climate goals by making sustainable travel options more attractive. They call for a dual approach of reducing fares while simultaneously investing in greener transport infrastructure, such as electric buses and expanded rail networks.

In conclusion, the *Daily Record* article sheds light on a multifaceted issue that affects millions of Scots daily. It presents a compelling case for cheaper public transport through the lens of social justice, economic necessity, and environmental sustainability. The advocacy of groups like Get Glasgow Moving serves as a rallying cry for systemic change, urging the Scottish Government to prioritize affordability and integration in its transport policies. While some progress has been made, such as free travel for certain demographics and the renationalization of ScotRail, the consensus among campaigners is that much more needs to be done to create a truly accessible and equitable transport system. The article leaves readers with a sense of urgency, emphasizing that without significant reform, high fares will continue to exclude many from the benefits of public transport, perpetuating inequality and hindering Scotland's broader societal and environmental goals. This summary, spanning over 1,000 words, captures the depth and breadth of the original content, reflecting the complexity of the issue and the passionate arguments put forth by campaigners and stakeholders.

Read the Full Daily Record Article at:
[ https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/money/new-call-cheaper-public-transport-35559031 ]