IT is the pioneering transport scheme setting the wheels in motion to secure Southampton as a leading hub for coach travel.

Passengers in the city are the first to benefit from an innovative scheme launching today offering cheaper coach travel.

Britain’s largest coach operator National Express has chosen Southampton as the pilot city for its groundbreaking new scheme enabling concessionary bus pass holders a 20 per cent discount on their fares.

The deal is the next step in the My Journey initiative, a joint scheme between Southampton City Council and Hampshire County Council to boost public transport in the area.

The firm hopes the scheme, which it intends to roll out across the county, will boost the city’s reputation as a leader in the provision of affordable travel and will open the door for residents by enabling them to take advantage of cost-effective travel to explore the country and further afield.