Gordon Marsden, MP for Blackpool South today welcomed the introduction of free bus travel for people over 60 in Blackpool but called on the council to consider more flexible travel options for Blackpool residents with disabilities.  

Mr Marsden said “The Government’s introduction of free bus travel for over 60s will enhance the lives of many older people in Blackpool and elsewhere by enabling them to stay active and get out and about in the community.” 

“The Government is now investing over £2.5 billion a year in bus services and has passed legislation to make sure everyone aged 60 and over, and people with disabilities, will get free local off-peak travel on all buses anywhere in England from this April.” 

“As President of Blackpool Disability Services I know that many older people in Blackpool have difficulty getting around. Therefore I am calling on the Government to put pressure on local councils to provide alternative concessions to the free bus passes – this could include transferring these benefits to services like dial-a-ride or other community transport schemes”.

“If Blackpool Council was more flexible and offered alternative concessions to older and disabled passengers then this would allow many more people to access a travel concession they can use.” 

26/03/2008