Fare-free public transport already operates in several cities internationally, including Albuquerque, Aubagne, Belgrade, Dunkirk, Kansas City, Kriviy Rih, Luxemburg, Tallinn and more than 130 municipalities in Brazil. Similar campaigns are running in London and Glasgow.
Fare-free public transport would:
- Make public transport simpler and more attractive to use
- Reduce traffic congestion
- Help tackle the cost of living crisis
- Reduce inequality, social exclusion, isolation and loneliness
- Improve accessibility
- Make a major contribution to reducing Greater Manchester’s contribution to climate change, reduce air pollution and ticket litter
- Remove a structural cause of conflict between transport workers and the public which sometimes results in verbal abuse, threats, and violence towards workers and the public
- Allow resources to be redirected from ticketing and enforcement to more services, better customer service and accessibility
- Lead to an increase in patronage which could make an expansion of services and increased frequency viable
- Benefit the night-time economy
In Greater Manchester there is already some fare-free public transport. We have two fare-free bus services in the city centre. Many young, old and disabled people, along with many public transport workers, already have some fare-free travel.
Fare Free Greater Manchester is campaigning for fare-free travel for everyone in Greater Manchester. We support steps in that direction which protect jobs and services, whether that is an expansion of fare-free services, wider eligibility for fare-free travel, or workers demanding travel passes from their employer. We want to see improved and expanded public transport services.
Fare Free Greater Manchester is already supported by many individuals and the following organisations:
- UNISON Greater Manchester Transport branch
- Manchester Trades Union Council
- Unite Greater Manchester Community branch
- Greater Manchester Association of Trades Union Councils
- Equity, the performing arts and entertainment union
- Tipping Point UK
- Stockport United Against Austerity
- Platt Claremont Residents Association
- Trafford Green Party