All change for free bus passes?

Since April 2008, people who are either aged over 60 or registered disabled have been entitled to free off-peak bus travel throughout England.

This scheme is currently run by district and borough councils, funded by a government grant. From April 1 county councils across the country have been instructed by the government that they must take over the responsibility for both financing and running the scheme.

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) said it is looking at ways to keep the scheme afloat, including beginning times for travel half an hour later.

People in East Sussex have been asked to comment on proposed changes to the concessionary fares scheme and the deadline for responses to the consultation has been extended from December 20 until Friday January 14.

A spokesperson for ESCC said:“We are considering withdrawing the discretionary 9am start when we take over running the scheme - passengers would be able to use their passes from 9.30am. By doing this we may be able to save approximately £160,000 per year.

“In rural areas, where services do not run so regularly, it is possible that passes would still be accepted on some journeys before 9.30am.

“Although we don’t know the details yet, we believe there will be a cut in the 2011/12 financial year in the government grant to run the scheme, and we are having to look at ways of reducing this cost.”

ESCC says it welcomes comments from anyone who has an interest in the proposals.

Responses will be considered by county councillors in February 2011.

Comments on the scheme can be left online at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/have yoursay Hard copies are available at local libraries.