Restrictions return for holders of older people's bus passes in Hampshire

RESTRICTIONS on older people’s bus passes will return in Hampshire on Monday as children go back to school.

In January, the county council lifted the bar on free travel before 9.30am to help older people get to vaccination appointments and shop at quieter times.

Now, however, it is set to return.

Cllr Rob Humby, HCC cabinet member for economy, transport and environment, said: “As schools and colleges prepare to open for greater numbers of children and young people from 8th March, we can expect travel times to start to get back to more traditional peak periods.

“It seems the right time to revert to the usual operating hours for bus passes for older people, helping to ensure bus operators have the capacity to provide journeys to those who need to travel to school and college by bus.”

He continued: “I would like to thank Hampshire’s bus operators, once again, for making changes quickly and efficiently, responding to the ever-changing demands brought about by travel restrictions in place to help stop the spread of coronavirus, while making sure people are safe for essential journeys.”

Older Persons Concessionary Bus Passes are available for people who have reached State Pension age.

The pass entitles people to free travel on bus services throughout England from 9.30am to 11pm Monday to Friday, all day at weekends and on public holidays.