AN INITIATIVE which will see free bus travel in Dunfermline for three days next month has been given the green light.

Instead of offering free parking like in previous years, the City of Dunfermline area committee has agreed to spend £18,000 on the public transport scheme.

The days when you can hop onto the bus without paying are March 10, 30 and 31 – Mother's Day and Easter weekend.

It is hoped the idea will encourage people to travel in the city using sustainable public transport, support households that don’t have a car and help reduce carbon emissions.

READ MORE: Council to spend £18,000 on free Dunfermline bus travel initiative

City of Dunfermline Convener, Cllr James Calder said: “Previously, we used this budget for a free shuttle bus and free Sunday parking on certain days, but there was little evidence of increased footfall in the city centre.

“This year, by using it for free bus travel, we hope to encourage more people to take environmentally friendly travel in Dunfermline instead. It also makes sure that those who don't have cars or drive will also benefit.

“Offering free bus travel on these key dates should help businesses too, as it will encourage more to use our local shops, cafes and restaurants.”

While welcoming the scheme, Cllr Gavin Ellis suggested local businesses be involved in the future in deciding what dates are chosen.

Dunfermline Press: The free bus journeys will apply within this area. The free bus journeys will apply within this area. (Image: Fife Council)

He added: "I would like to see it extended out to the West Fife villages as well so we could bring people from the villages in."

The free travel will only cover journeys made on Stagecoach services within the Dunfermline zone area (see map).

Bus routes included in the Dunfermline zone are 1, 2, 3, 4, 4B, 5, 6, 6A, 7, 8, 19, 28, 31, 33, 84, 88, 88A, 89, 747, AZ1, X24, X27, X51, X52, X54, X55, X56, X58, X59, X60, X61.