Pending final approvals, the initiative will apply to most registered commercial and supported bus services, with exceptions for airport routes.

Funding for the program will be sourced from a portion of the £13.5 million Bus Grant allocated to the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority by the Department for Transport.

Mayor Helen Godwin announced a new free travel initiative at Hengrove Play Park in Bristol, highlighting its potential to save families money and promote greener travel habits.

This initiative is designed to benefit around 150,000 young people across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.

Children aged five to 15 will be able to travel for free without needing a bus pass or registration, making it the first free travel scheme of its kind in England outside London.

The free travel period will commence on July 19 and run until September 5, coinciding with the school holidays to enhance travel accessibility for families.

The announcement event saw participation from local council leaders, bus operators including First Bus, Stagecoach, and Bath Bus Company, as well as students from Perry Court E-Act academy.

Students expressed excitement about the initiative, noting it would increase opportunities to meet friends and ease travel for families with multiple children.

Local bus companies have shown support for the initiative, showcasing new zero-emission electric buses being introduced in the region.

The initiative is implemented by the West of England Combined Authority, which encompasses Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset.

The program aims to inspire the next generation of bus passengers and provide enjoyable travel experiences during the holidays.

The scheme aims to alleviate financial pressures on families amidst rising living costs while encouraging increased public transport usage.