Photo: KCC
Elderly and disabled residents in Kent who hold a concessionary bus pass will enjoy more hours of free travel this summer, thanks to a grant from Kent County Council (KCC).
The council has secured funding to allow pass holders to use buses for free from 9am to 11pm on weekdays, instead of the usual 9.30am to 11pm. The extended hours will apply from July 26 to September 3.
The council said the move was aimed at supporting the recovery of the local economy and encouraging people to use public transport safely and confidently.
KCC Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Michael Payne said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this extra benefit to our concessionary bus pass holders, who make up a significant proportion of our bus users.
“This will give them more flexibility and choice in planning their journeys, whether it is for shopping, leisure, health or social purposes. It will also help boost the local businesses and attractions that have been hit hard by the pandemic.”
He added: “We urge everyone who travels by bus to follow the latest government guidance on wearing face coverings and social distancing, and to respect the choices of other passengers and staff.”
There are around 290,000 concessionary bus pass holders in Kent, who can use their passes on any local bus service in England. The passes are valid all day on weekends and bank holidays.