Source: City of Portsmouth
Eligible older adults and people with disabilities can continue to enjoy extended concessionary travel benefits for journeys starting in Portsmouth.
Portsmouth City Council has decided to extend its popular concessionary bus pass travel scheme for another year, following a recent cabinet meeting. Last year, residents made 2.9 million journeys using these concessionary fare bus passes, highlighting the scheme’s importance. This move underscores the council’s commitment to supporting the community and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The national concessionary travel scheme only allows for free travel between 9:30am and 11pm Monday to Friday and all day at weekends. In addition, Portsmouth’s local scheme allows holders of a Portsmouth City Council issued older or disabled persons bus pass to continue enjoying access to further concessionary fare benefits for journeys started in Portsmouth. These benefits include;
- the provision of a Companion Pass, which allows holders of a disabled person bus pass, who are unable to travel alone on buses, to have a companion travel with them free of charge
- free travel on local buses between 9:00am and 2:00am on weekdays for older persons bus pass holders
- free travel on local buses all day, every day of the week, for those people who have a disabled persons or companion bus pass.
- older persons bus pass holders may also travel before 9am, for journeys starting in Portsmouth with proof of a medical appointment at either Queen Alexandra Hospital or St Mary’s Community Health Campus.
The extended concessionary travel scheme is vital in ensuring that older adults and eligible people with disabilities have access to essential services and opportunities throughout the city. By reducing barriers to travel, the scheme helps improve access to education, healthcare, employment and social activities, enhancing the overall well-being of the community. This extension reaffirms the council’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive community.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Extending the concessionary bus travel scheme for another year ensures that older adults and eligible people with disabilities can continue to access essential services and participate in community life. We are proud to continue offering this support, which significantly enhances the quality of life for many in our city.”
For information about concessionary travel passes in Portsmouth: www.portsmouth.gov.uk/services/parking-roads-and-travel/travel/