A new deal with local bus operators looks set to provide them with ongoing funding of more than £9 million for the provision of concessionary travel.
Members of the Strategy, Finance and City Regeneration Committee will next week be asked to approve new arrangements with Brighton & Hove Buses, Stagecoach and The Big Lemon for the reimbursement of concessionary travel journeys.
This is what the council pays the operators for journeys made by people with an Older or Disabled People’s bus pass – this is a statutory duty of the council.
Deals with two of the smaller city operators, Compass and Metrobus, are still being negotiated.
Read the report being presented to the committee Thursday 5 October.
There are over 42,000 city residents with a concessionary bus pass. Around 35,000 with Older People’s passes with just over 7,000 residents qualifying for a Disabled People’s pass.
Councillor Trevor Muten, Chair of the Transport and Sustainability committee said: “This will be great news for our residents.
“Providing free bus travel for older and disabled people is extremely important for ensuring some of our most vulnerable residents are supported to move around the city and access vital services. It also lowers their risk of isolation.
“In partnership with local bus operators, we’re working hard to make sure our residents are provided with the best possible services.