PAST CONSULTATION Park and Ride Services

To ensure that the Council received the views of those most likely to be affected by changes to the concessionary fares scheme views were sought via the following groups;

● Disability Focus Group;

● Transport Users Group; and

● The Carers Association

The consultation was conducted through attendance at their forums and the distribution of a letter.

Feedback was requested on the discretionary elements of the scheme, which are the companion pass, the higher and lower rate vouchers and the earlier 9am travel times.

Feedback from the groups was minimal (17 percent) with only 15 out of 87 responses being received.

The majority of the feedback received was regarding the discretionary voucher scheme. It was highlighted that the vouchers offer reassurance and flexibility to travel.

Companion passes were viewed as essential by a number of respondents, but particularly third party groups who represent those who are likely to be affected by changes to the discretionary concessionary fare scheme.

There were concerns that due to the bus operating times in certain localities those residents will be restricted to staying at home during certain periods of the day to ensure their free travel.

Community travel was also raised in the feedback although as the figures show it is the area of lowest usage. There is concern from those who use these services that the removal of vouchers will mean that these services will no longer be available to them.

The other area of community transport provision which has been raised through the consultation feedback is the hospital transport services. Some of those consulted have mentioned this service as one they value and hope will not be withdrawn as part of the new scheme unaware that this service is not provided by the Council.

This page was last updated on 10/7/2008