Free bus travel for elderly and disabled people in Lichfield and Burntwood will continue, Staffordshire County Council has confirmed.

The future of the scheme was debated by the council ahead of a move which will see them take on the responsibility for the concessionary bus scheme in April 2011.

However, it has now been confirmed that free travel will continue between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday and all day during weekends and bank holidays.

County Councillor Robert Marshall, Cabinet member for Regeneration and Infrastructure, said the county would get Government funding to help pay for the concessionary travel scheme, but it could be reduced.

He added:

“Some districts and borough councils have, in the past, chosen to provide an enhanced service to suit their residents’ local needs. We are talking to each district to see if they wish to continue with these additional services or even add them.”

Pensioners and disabled people will be able to apply for their concessionary bus passes at their local library and some other venues. More details on these extra venues will be available in the New Year.

Cllr Marshall added:

“Existing passes issued by the district councils will continue to be valid until the expiry date printed on the pass.”

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