DEMANDS for fairer travel passes for England’s over-60s have been growing stronger.
And as Labour confirms a major rule change – who will miss out?
GettyDemands for fairer travel passes for England’s over-60s have been growing stronger.[/caption]
Those eligible for a free bus pass in England
Currently, people in England that live outside London, only qualify for free off-peak bus travel once they reach state pension age which is currently 66.
But in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, residents enjoy this benefit from the age of 60.
In response to a parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Dr Al Pinkerton, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood confirmed that English councils can choose to offer additional local concessions,
Such as earlier eligibility for free bus passes — but must fund them themselves reports The Star.
Lightwood said: “The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) costs around £700 million annually.
“Any changes to the statutory obligations… would therefore need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability.”
Petition surpasses 101,000 signatures
The revelation that councils already have this power has given fresh energy to campaigners.
A petition calling for the ENCTS to be expanded nationally to include all over-60s in England — not just those in London — has now surpassed 101,000 signatures.
The petition argues the current rules are outdated and unfair.
It says: “As people get older, some over 60s drive less and less.
“We believe we need equality on public transport.
“It would mean England had the same provision as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.”
What does this mean for you?
If you’re 60 or over and live in a London borough, you can get free travel on the bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services in London with an Oyster photocard.
But if you’re aged between 60 and 66 in England and don’t live in London the answer as to when you’ll be eligible for free bus travel, could depend on where you live.
While there’s no national plan yet to lower the threshold, your local council can introduce an over-60s scheme.
It all comes down to public pressure and local campaigning.
With confirmed government backing for local flexibility, some councils could act — if residents persist on having their voices heard.
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