Funding Cuts Threaten Bus Service

Councils in England are fearful that government cuts could mean the end of free bus services for elderly and disabled people.

The current concessionary fares scheme means that councils offer free off-peak travel to anyone with a disability or over the age of 62.  The scheme is subsidised by government funding, but recent cuts have seen the funding slowly dwindle to the point that councils are unsure how they’ll be able to continue the scheme.

Significant Cuts

Since the coalition government came into power in 2010, the funding towards concessionary fares has been reduced by £261 million, leading many councils to reconsider where they’re spending their money.

Rural routes and school buses have suffered as a result, as these services are costly for councils to run, with many considering axing less popular routes.  The concessionary scheme has been protected by law, so councils have been obligated to provide it and have to save money elsewhere.

Government Spending

Leicestershire councillor, Peter Osborne, said: “The local government spending squeeze means what is required by law is undeliverable unless county councils put in extra subsidy.  Is it fair that a ratepayer is subsidising what the government should be paying for in the first place?”

Issues are being attributed to the aging population with a third of all bus journeys being taken by elderly or disabled people.  Wakefield Councillor, Peter Box, comments: “The concessionary fare provides a lifeline for our most vulnerable residents, but it’s now under real threat.”