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London over-60s Free Bus and Train Travel Change Plan as DfT Responds
ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM, JUL 24 – Local councils in England can lower bus pass eligibility age below State Pension age, responding to a petition with over 100,000 signatures seeking parity with other UK nations.
- A petition calling for free bus travel for all people over 60 in England outside London has gained over 101,200 signatures as of 2025-07-25.
- The petition emerged because England restricts free bus travel to those reaching the State Pension age of 66, unlike Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland where eligibility starts at 60.
- Supporters argue the current scheme is unjust given the changed pension age and that many over 60s drive less, calling for equality on public transport.
- Transport Minister Simon Lightwood confirmed local authorities can offer concessions such as lowering the eligibility age, but any changes require careful financial consideration of the £700 million annual ENCTS budget.
- The government allocated £955 million for 2025/26 to improve bus services outside London, while the petition awaits an MP debate, signaling potential policy discussion on expanding free bus travel.
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Department of Transport issues update on free bus passes for over 60s in England - Manchester Evening News
Transport Minister Simon Lightwood has said that local councils in England "do have the power" to lower the age threshold for the older persons' bus pass
·Manchester, United Kingdom
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