Changes to free bus travel
Pensioners will have to pay for rush hour bus travel from Monday in Staffordshire.
Older people are being reminded that changes to free bus pass travel (the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme) come into force from Monday.
Passengers will still be able to use their passes to travel for free between 9.30am and 11pm and at any time at the weekend or on bank holidays – but will need to pay a fare if travelling outside these times. This is in line with national statutory guidelines for the concessionary travel scheme.
If residents do want to travel at peak morning times they are advised to check with their local bus operator for the best prices and options for their journeys.
Helen Fisher, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “While the vast majority of older people use their passes to travel for free off peak, we are reminding residents that if they do want to travel before 9.30am they will have to pay a fare. This is in line with the national travel programme.
“The good news is that for people who do want to travel in the morning there are some good choices out there, with some operators now offering travel at child’s prices or for just one pound. However, this does vary so please check with your own operator.”
People who are disabled and under retirement age will not be affected by the changes and can continue to use their passes to travel for free. This is to allow them to access education and employment.
You can find out more information about bus passes via staffordshire.gov.uk/Transport/buses/OlderDisabled/247travel.aspx
