Lib Dems promote free bus travel (South West Surrey Liberal Democrats)

South West Surrey Liberal Democrats <info@swsurreylibdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems promote free bus travel

April 19, 2006 10:41 AM

Around 23,000 Waverley residents are missing out on the opportunity of free off-peak local bus travel across Surrey.

So far more than 8,500 eligible residents have applied and been issued with their free bus permits, which entitle them to free travel on most registered local bus services which operate within the county of Surrey. This scheme is open to all Waverley residents who are aged over 60 or are disabled. In addition, if you find it impossible to travel on your own, then you may be entitled to a 'plus one' companion permit*.

One Waverley resident who has recently taken advantage of this scheme and been issued with her new bus permit is Lib Dem Councillor Celia Savage, Waverley's portfolio holder for parishes, partnerships and local economy. She says:

"This is a marvellous scheme as it not only provides permit holders with the opportunity to travel for free between the Waverley's towns and villages, but it offers freedom of travel across the county. Permit holders are also able to stay on the bus and travel into neighbouring counties on many local routes, for example, from Cranleigh to Horsham or from Farnham to Aldershot, if that specific bus travels that far. We live in such a beautiful and thriving place with so much to see and do and I urge all eligible residents to apply for their permits today and see what the local area has to offer!"

Eligible residents who are new to the scheme can pick up an application form for a permit by visiting any of Waverley's offices in Godalming, Cranleigh, Farnham or Haslemere, and from most post offices and libraries. Alternatively, the form can be downloaded from Waverley's website at www.waverley.gov.uk/communitywelfare/buses.asp. The completed form, along with proof of entitlement, can be posted or taken to any of Waverley's offices. Full information about what proof of entitlement is required can be found on the application form.

Councillor Savage continues: "I am also delighted with the government's recent announcement that the scheme is set to expand further in April 2008, which will offer free nationwide bus travel to people with disabilities and those aged over 60. This recognition of the importance of public transport to these residents in boroughs such as Waverley is fantastic news and will go some way in supporting the work of the council in building accessible services and combating social exclusion."

For further information on local bus routes contact Traveline on 0870 608 2608 or visit www.traveline.org.uk. For more information and general enquiries about the bus permits contact Waverley Borough Council on 01483 523333.