Government Considering Changing Age Eligibility for Free Bus Passes Across England and Wales
In a significant development, the government has recently responded to a public petition advocating for a change in the age criteria for free bus travel in England and Wales. The petition, which has amassed over 10,000 signatures on the Parliament’s website, is urging the government to consider lowering the age threshold for eligibility to 60. At present, the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme offers free off-peak travel to individuals over 66, with certain local councils providing additional benefits, such as free travel for over-60s in London and Merseyside. However, this has sparked calls for a more uniform approach across the UK.
The petition, spearheaded by Karen Hickman, highlights the disparity in the current system, which unfairly restricts free bus travel eligibility for individuals in England until they reach state pension age. This stands in contrast to the provisions in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, where those aged 60 and above enjoy free bus travel. Hickman’s appeal stresses the need for equality, arguing that many individuals over 60 reduce their reliance on driving and increasingly rely on public transport for mobility and social engagement.
While campaigners support the call for aligning England’s policy with that of other UK nations, the Department for Transport has expressed concerns over the financial implications of such a change. The current scheme costs approximately £700 million annually, and any alteration to the eligibility criteria would need to be carefully evaluated to ensure financial sustainability. Despite acknowledging the vital role of the scheme in supporting local bus services and fostering community connectivity, the department emphasised the need for a cautious approach to any potential amendments.
The government’s commitment to enhancing public transport accessibility was reiterated, with recognition of the ENCTS as a valuable initiative supporting local bus services and promoting active and socially connected lifestyles, primarily for those aged 66 and above. Local authorities in England possess the flexibility to provide additional concessions beyond the statutory obligations, depending on regional requirements and priorities. Moreover, recent government funding allocation of £1 billion for buses, with £712 million earmarked for local authorities, underscores ongoing efforts to enhance bus services.
Despite the variations in concessionary travel policies across the UK, with devolved administrations determining eligibility criteria independently, there is a growing momentum for reform. In England, while some councils extend free bus travel to over-60s, the coverage is not universal, leading to calls for a more inclusive approach. As the petition gains traction, with signatures surpassing 16,000, there is the potential for it to be debated in Parliament once it reaches 100,000 signatures. The evolving discourse underscores the importance of equitable access to essential services and the inherent value of inclusive transport policies for all citizens.