The New National Free Travel Scheme
The National free travel scheme will be launched on 1 April 2008. This will allow pass holders to travel on ordinary bus services free of charge throughout England. They will not be valid on long distance coaches. If you already have a current Castle Morpeth bus pass (the latest plastic cards) you do not need to re-apply for the new scheme. A new Smartcard will be sent to you at the end of March 2008.
From 1 April 2008 passes issued in Northumberland can be used from 9am onwards on Mondays to Saturdays and all day weekends and bank holidays for all journeys that start within Northumberland. However local variations may apply on journeys that start outside the County as the minimum statutory start time is 9:30am. Earlier start times are at the discretion of issuing authorities and must be funded locally.
Companion Passes
Those who cannot travel alone may apply for a special companion pass which will allow one companion to travel free with them regardless of the companions age. Companion passes are a discretionary addition to the statutory scheme. Not all areas of England will issue or recognise them. This means that a companion can travel free on journeys that start in Northumberland but may be charged a standard fare when boarding a bus outside Northumberland. The companion passes have a +C on the top right corner. To apply you must supply evidence (eg a medical certificate from your doctor) that you are unable to travel alone.
New Extra Local Concessions
From 1 April 2008 residents of Castle Morpeth can purchase a Nexus card giving free off-peak travel on the Metro. The card is excellent value at £25 for a years travel. Once you receive your new bus pass you will be able to use it to apply for a Nexus card. You will have to go to a Nexus Travelshop in person taking your new bus pass with you. Nexus have Travelshops at the Central Station, Haymarket, Monument and at other locations.
What is the current concessionary travel scheme?
Until the end of March 2008 qualifying applicants who live in Castle Morpeth will receive a bus pass which allows them to free bus travel within the borough and a flat rate of 50p for all unbroken journeys within Northumberland and Tyne and Wear as long as the journey starts or finishes within Castle Morpeth Borough. Until 1 April 2008 you the concessionary pass is only valid for journeys that start after 9.30am on Mondays to Fridays and all day at weekends and bank holidays.
Who Qualifies for Concessionary Travel?
a) People aged 60 or over
b) People under 60 who:
- are blind or partially sighted
- have a learning disability which includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning
- do not have arms or have a long-term loss of use of both arms
- are without speech
- are profoundly or severely deaf
- have a disability or injury which has a substantial or long-term adverse effect on their ability to walk
- are unable to hold a driving licence on medical grounds (other than alcohol or drugs related)
To apply for a pass call 01670 535000 Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm
What you need to supply with your application for a bus pass
1. Evidence that you are a Castle Morpeth Borough resident (eg. a recent Council Tax, or utility bill).
2. One passport-sized photograph with your name on the back in case of separation from the form.
3. Evidence of your eligibility (photocopies are accepted):
- If you are over 60 you must supply a copy of an official document bearing your date of birth (either a passport, drivers licence or birth certificate).
- If you are under 60 you must supply documentary evidence, at no cost to the council that you qualify under one of the above stated disabilities (e.g. a Blue Badge, Attendance Allowance, The higher rate Disability Living Allowance, War Pensioners Mobility Suppliment, a letter from your doctor or some other official document that clearly states your qualification).