Buspass holders will be able to enjoy free nationwide bus travel between the hours of 9am to 11pm from 30 June.

Currently the scheme runs from 9.30am to 11pm but Kent County Council has agreed to cover the cost of an extra 30 minutes of free travel at the start of the day in response to public demand.

The increased cost of the new nationwide bus concession, which came into play on April 1 2008, meant Ashford Borough Council was unable afford to subsidise free travel from 9am-9.30am.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Highways Keith Ferrin said:

“We realise that it has been an extra burden for the district councils to carry this additional cost.

“I am pleased, therefore, that the county council has stepped in to help some of our more vulnerable bus passengers with this decision.

“Making the pass valid from 9am will make a big difference. It will mean over-60s and disabled passengers will be able to go to hospital or doctor’s appointments earlier when they are most needed, and travel into town to shop at a more convenient time.”

13/05/2008