Concessionary travel times will stay the same

Winchester City Council Leaders have decided that when the new bus passes are introduced for national free bus travel for the over 60's, the start time will remain at 9.00am.

Previous worries about the level of budget required to fund the new scheme have been alleviated in light of the current budget situation. Efficiency savings made throughout the organization mean that there is now scope for more to be spent on the concessionary travel scheme, enabling the start of the scheme to remain at 9.00am.

It has also been seen as important to keep a consistent free travel scheme across our neighbouring authorities and so recent decisions made by our neighbours have encouraged a 9.00am start to avoid confusion for all who use the scheme.

Cllr George Beckett, Leader of Winchester City Council said, "I have listened to comments from members of the public, and in particular the concerns of rural communities as expressed at a meeting of Parish Council Chairmen which I chaired on Tuesday in coming to this decision. Taking into account these views along with the new budget information, we will now be able to provide a scheme which I am sure will bring real benefits to our residents over 60 from all areas of our district."

Date published: 08/07/2008