See Also
Concessionary Travel
application form (pdf)
Lost
bus permit form(pdf)
Benefits for elderly customers
Contact Us
E-mail:
buspermits@thanet.gov.uk
Phone:
01843 577000 or
Write to:
Bus Permit Section
Thanet District Council
P.O. Box 9
Margate
Kent CT9 1XZ
Bus permits - frequently Asked Questions
Below is more information about the National Bus Concession. If
there’s anything else you need to know, please contact us.
Q. What is the new National Bus Concession?
A. Since 1st April 2006, eligible bus users
have been guaranteed a minimum of free off-peak local bus travel
within the local authority area in which they live. But from 1st
April 2008, the new National Bus Concession enabled eligible
users to get free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in
England.
Q. Who’s eligible for the new concession?
A. People aged 60 or over or eligible disabled
people are entitled to concessionary bus travel. For more
information about eligibility, visit
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/
PublicTransport/BusAndCoachTravel/DG_071640
Q. When will I receive my new pass?
A. We started issuing
passes from 1st April 2008; so if you haven't had your
replacement pass yet, contact us.
Q. When exactly is off-peak travel?
A. Off-peak hours are 9.00am until the last bus
of the day Monday to Friday, and all day weekends and bank
holidays. Other areas may vary, but as a minimum the statutory
requirement is 9.30am until 11pm Monday to Friday, and at any time
of day at weekends and on public holidays.
Q. What is the definition of a ‘local’ bus?
A. The definition of a ‘local’ bus will be
self-evident in most cases, but in a few instances could include
some longer distance buses and coach services where part of their
route is registered as a local bus service. If in doubt, check
with the bus service operator.
Q. Will I be able to enjoy free travel everywhere within the
UK?
A. No, the concession will only apply within
England.
Q. Can I use my pass for travel in the Isle of Wight, Isle of
Man, Isles of Scilly or the Channel Isles?
A. Passes can be used on the Isle of Wight and
Isles of Scilly. But the Isle of Man and the Channels Islands
are not part of England so passes will not be valid there.
Q. Is it only applicable to buses?
A. The new concession issued by Thanet District
Council applies just to bus travel.
Q. If I visit an area that offers additional services, will I
be entitled to them?
A. Probably not. As a general rule, local
authorities will only provide additional services for their own
residents. Some authorities, however, may provide them – check with
the relevant authority in the area to which you intend to
travel.
Q. I don’t live in London, but I visit relatives there
occasionally. Will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a
Freedom Pass holder if I travel there?
A. No. Because those benefits are paid for by
the London authorities, only London Freedom Pass holders will be
able to enjoy additional local travel on the tube, trains and
trams. You will, however, be able to enjoy the statutory national
concession of free off-peak bus travel when visiting the
capital.
Q. How do I get a concessionary travel pass?
A. Pick up an application form at one of
our offices, or print
one from this website, or contact us on 01843
577000
Q. Do I need to get a new pass if I’m not planning to travel
outside my local area?
A. Yes. Bus services will only accept the new
National pass.
Q. What will my pass look like?
A. You can see the two new types of passes
below.
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Pass with a blue strip down the right-hand side, is for those aged
60 and over.
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Pass with an orange strip down right-hand side, is for
eligible disabled people.
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Q. I’m finding all the differences in the different schemes
confusing, what do I really need to know?
A. The new national pass entitles you to free
off-peak local bus travel anywhere in England. This is the only
service that is guaranteed. There may be additional services but
you should check with the local travel authority that issued your
pass for more details.