Wigan Council's leader is 'delighted' that the 9.30am bus pass restriction for older and disabled people will be dropped
The leader of Wigan Council has welcomed plans to permanently remove restrictions on free bus travel for older and disabled people.
Currently concessionary passholders can only travel on the Bee Network for free after 9.30am.
But Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has announced this time limit will be dropped and people can use their bus passes for free at any time.
It follows two successful pilots in August and November, which saw around 400,000 older and disabled people in Greater Manchester use their concessionary passes at any time, rather than having to wait until 9.30am to get on board.
It meant demand for services was more evenly spread, lessening the 9.30am surge of passholders that often resulted in crowded conditions.
Subject to finalisation of budgets in February and consultation, the change would be implemented from March 1.
Mr Burnham said: “I’m really pleased to confirm our intention to make this major change to give older and disabled people unlimited free bus travel on the Bee Network. Removing the restriction is the right thing to do and we’ve heard loud and clear from our residents the positive impact it will have on their lives.”
The move has been welcomed by Wigan Council leader Coun David Molyneux, who said: “The concessionary bus trials in August and November were greatly received by bus users across our borough and demonstrated clear social and economic benefits for our residents.
"With access to early morning travel essential for those who rely on public transport for medical appointments, caring responsibilities, volunteering and part-time work, many older and disabled passengers benefited from the increased flexibility, affordability and independence that the trial offered.
"This is why we wrote to mayor Andy Burnham and the Bee Network in September to express the council’s support for permanent early morning concessionary travel, and we are delighted to hear that this has now been confirmed, meaning concessionary bus pass holders can travel for free at any time of day."
Mr Burnham and council leaders also confirmed that all bus and tram fares – including the £2 fare cap for an adult single journey - will be frozen for 2026.