Bus pass restrictions scrapped for older people during lockdown in Surrey and Hampshire
It is so they can get to vaccination appointments if needed
Last updated 25th Jan 2021
Older people in Surrey and Hampshire can now use their concessionary bus passes at any time of the day.
The temporary measure has been put in place by both county councils during lockdown, and means those eligible will not to have wait until 9:30am to use public transport.
The councils have said it is to allow people to get to vaccine appointments if needed, and and for essential shopping during less busy periods.
The restriction was lifted in Surrey last week - for Hampshire residents, it is effective from today.
Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, said:
"I’m very aware that many of our elderly and disabled residents rely on our bus network to both fund and facilitate vital journeys, especially during lockdown. I’m delighted that we have increased access to free bus travel once again to ensure essential journeys can take place at any time of the day and that our most vulnerable residents can travel for free off-peak when there are less passengers and it is safer to do so."
Surrey County Council has said the measure "will be reviewed as and when lockdown restrictions are eased."
Rob Humby, Deputy Leader of Hampshire County Council and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, said:
"We want to do all we can to help Hampshire residents take up Covid vaccinations when they're offered them. We understand these are difficult times for people and we are doing everything we can to help. I hope that extending the times people can use their free bus passes will help older people travel to early morning vaccination appointments, and to travel at quieter times for essential journeys such as those for food shopping. I would urge everyone to continue to travel as safely as possible when using public transport for essential journeys."
Hampshire County Council said the change is due to be kept in place until all students return to lessons once restrictions are lifted.