Education and civic leaders call for bus pass for Peterborough youngsters to be saved

A coalition of head teachers, college principals, faith leaders, and civic organizations have urged the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority to extend further the future of the Tiger Bus Pass.

The Tiger Pass gives under 25s access to £1 bus journeys across the county.

The scheme was introduced in May 2024 under the administration of Mayor Dr Nik Johnson and was due to run out in November but the scheme was continued by incoming Mayor Paul Bristow, with the Combined Authority Board agreeing to keep fund the Tiger Pass until March 31, 2026.

There is yet to be an announcement of its future beyond that date but educational and civic leaders have written to Mayor commit to saving the pass throughout his term.

In a letter addressed to the mayor, it states: “The benefits of the Tiger Pass are well established and far-reaching.

"It provides affordable travel for young people across our region, enabling access to education, apprenticeships, employment, and recreational activities — with savings of £20 per week and more.

“It is simple to apply for, free of charge, and widely accepted by multiple bus operators.

“It promotes independence among young people, particularly those in rural and suburban areas with limited transport options.

“It supports a more sustainable transport system by encouraging bus usage and reducing road congestion.

“Furthermore, the forthcoming bus franchise agreements present a unique opportunity to enhance connectivity, especially in underserved areas. With the Combined Authority set to control all fares and receive all fare revenues, promoting widespread use of the Tiger Pass could increase ridership and revenue — a win-win for both young people and the Authority.”

Signatories include leaders from Long Road Sixth Form College, Thomas Deacon Academy Parkside Community College, The Inspire Educational Group, Milton Road Primary School, Cambridge Regional College, the Meridian Trust, Romsey Mill, and representatives from faith and community organizations.

The group are members and allies of Cambridge and Peterborough Citizens. Young leaders from these institutions will be attending the Extraordinary Combined Authority Board Meeting December 18 where a decision on the future of the Tiger Pass is due to be taken.

The young leaders will share with the board members the impact of reducing the scope of the Tiger Pass. A selection of these testimonies have been collated and published in a report entitled Young People Say They Depend on the Tiger Pass.