2008 National Bus Concession FAQs
England's 2008 Bus Concession explained
Below you'll find more information about the changes to the National Bus Concession. If there's anything else you need to know, don't hesitate to contact us by emailing travcons@winchester.gov.uk, calling 01962 848 346 or visiting the Parking Office at 6 Middle Brook Street, Winchester, SO23 8BQ.
Q. What is the new National Bus Concession?
A. Since 1st April 2006, eligible bus users have been guaranteed a minimum of free off-peak local bus travel within the local authority area in which they live. But from 1st April 2008, the new National Bus Concession will enable eligible users to get free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.*
* Some local authorities choose to fund additional benefits to their residents, e.g. train, tram or peak time bus travel. As a general rule, these additional benefits will only be available to local residents.
Winchester City Council have decided that those entitled to travel concessions will be entitled to free travel with their bus pass from 9am-11pm, Monday to Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays on all bus journeys commencing in the Winchester district.
Q. Who's eligible for the new concession?
A. People aged 60 or over or eligible disabled are entitled to concessionary bus travel. For more information about eligibility.
Q. When exactly is off-peak travel?
A. Off peak hours are 9.30am until 11pm Monday - Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays.
You will be able travel in the Winchester district from 9am until 11pm, Monday - Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays.
Q. What is the definition of a 'local' bus?
A. The definition of a 'local' bus will be self-evident in most cases, but in a few instances could include some longer distance buses and coach services where part of their route is registered as a local bus service. If in doubt, pass holders can check with the service operator or Winchester City Council.
Q. Will I be able to enjoy free travel everywhere within the UK?
A. No, the concession will only apply within England.
Q. Is it only applicable to buses?
A. The new concession applies just to bus travel but some authorities offer additional services like trains or trams or travel before 9.30am. With your Winchester City Council bus pass you will be able to use the Winchester Dial A Ride service at a reduced fare. For further information telephone Dial A Ride on (01962) 852 602.
Q. If I visit an area that offers additional services, will I be entitled to them?
A. Probably not. As a general rule, local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. Some authorities, however, may provide them - check with the relevant authority in the area to which you intend to travel.
Q. I don't live in London, but I visit relatives there occasionally. Will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a Freedom Pass holder if I travel there?
A. No. Because those benefits are paid for by the London authorities, only London Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy additional local travel on the tube, trains and trams. You will, however, be able to enjoy the statutory national concession of free off-peak bus travel when visiting the capital.
Q. How do I get a concessionary travel pass?
A. Winchester City Council will be upgrading passes automatically, so if you already have an existing bus pass issued by us, you won't need to do anything. Your new pass will be sent out to you by the end of March.
If you do not already have a bus pass please make an application for one.
I want to apply for an Older Persons Bus Pass
I want to apply for a Disabled Persons Bus Pass
Q. When will people receive their new passes?
A. We'll be issuing and posting new passes to people from mid-March 2008.
Q. How long will my bus pass be valid for?
A. All Winchester City Council bus passes will be valid until the 31 March 2011.
Q. I have a Companion bus pass. What will I and my companion be entitled to?
A. If you have a Companion bus pass, you and your companion can travel free within the Winchester district only, 9am - 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays. If you travel into another local authority area, the bus pass holder can travel free during off-peak hours, but the companion will have to pay full fare.
Q. I'm finding all the differences in the different schemes confusing, what do I really need to know?
A. The new national pass entitles you to free off-peak local bus travel anywhere in England. This is the only service that is guaranteed.
Within the Winchester district you will be able to travel free from 9am-11pm, Monday to Friday, and all day weekends and bank holidays.
