WILTSHIRE’S bus network is undergoing its biggest shake-up in years, and council leaders say passengers who haven’t stepped onboard recently may barely recognise it.

From capped £3 fares to a wave of electric vehicles, the county’s buses are being recast as cheaper, greener and more convenient at a time when many households are watching every penny.

Across Wiltshire, single fares remain £3 or less, while the £11.50 Wiltshire Day Rover offers unlimited travel across participating services.

All major operators now accept contactless payments, with tap-on, tap-off technology available on some or all routes, meaning passengers can board with a quick tap of a card or phone.

Behind the scenes, millions of pounds are being invested.

The council has secured £7 million from the Department for Transport for 2025 and 2026, funding service improvements including extended hours, increased frequencies on some routes and upgrades to waiting facilities across the county.

The fleet itself is also changing. Currently, 72% of buses meet the low-emission Euro 6 standard, and 30 new electric buses are due to arrive in Salisbury, replacing older vehicles and cutting carbon emissions.

Modern additions such as Wi-Fi, USB charging points and audio-visual announcements are also becoming more common.

Safety remains a key focus, with CCTV fitted on most buses, low-floor access for easier boarding and trained drivers providing reassurance.

Cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith said: “If you haven’t used the bus in a while, now is a great time to rediscover it.

“With better value fares, modern features, more environmentally friendly vehicles and straightforward payment options, bus travel is a convenient and sustainable choice for everyday journeys.

“So next time you’re heading out, why not hop on board and see the difference for yourself?”