Free all-day bus pass for elderly takes step closer
CONCESSIONARY TRAVEL TO ALSO APPLY TO THOSE WITH DISABILITIES
PLANS for ‘all-day’ concessionary bus pass travel for older people and those with disabilities have moved a step closer.
Currently concessionary bus pass holders are limited to off-peak times, which are from 9.30am on weekdays and at weekends.
But on Wednesday (September 18) the Cambidgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee recommended that the board gives the green light for passholders to travel for free all day from May 2025.
This would be an additional benefit on top of the nationwide English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) and only for residents who hold a Cambridgeshire and Peterborough-issued concessionary pass, the Combined Authority said.
The board will make a decision next month.
A spokesperson for the Combined Authority said: “The proposals are in response to local feedback raising awareness of the challenges concessionary pass holders have when dependent on public transport for peak-time obligations or opportunities.
“The proposals are part of the Combined Authority’s wider goal to make bus services work better for all communities.
“The Combined Authority already enables additional local concessions for passholders including a 50 per cent fare reduction for Dial-a-Ride passengers; pre-9.30am travel for sight impaired people and pre 9.30am travel for all passholders where the only service leaving a settlement on that day is scheduled to depart before 9.30am.”
Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “Many older people and people with disabilities rely on their bus passes for greater independence and better access to services, and this change would give them even greater flexibility with travel. It is another great example of the Combined Authority’s work to make buses meet the needs of our communities.”
Jess Slater, chief executive at Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, added: “At Healthwatch, we understand how vital accessible transport is for people with disabilities to maintain their independence and wellbeing. We also recognise the need for greater flexibility in travel times, particularly the desire to extend the scheme to allow travel before 9.30am, as seen in other regions.
“Ensuring accessible, timely transport options is key to improving health outcomes and quality of life for all.”
The cost of the extension is expected to be £536,513 per year, covered by a forecasted £1 million underspend in the wider concessionary budget.