Published on:
08
November 2005
Older and disabled people can look forward to free bus travel across Scotland from April 1 next year.
Now the Council is setting about the task of photographing everyone entitled to free transport and will be issuing a new card known as the entitlement card.
Letters are being sent to existing bus pass holders in Clackmannanshire inviting them to come along to various halls in the county to get their new picture taken.
David Taylor, Team Leader Concessions Unit said: "The new card will offer enhanced services. It is more than a bus pass. In time the Council is looking to add libraries or leisure services on to the card."
As well as the letter, people will receive the national application form, which they should complete and bring with them when they get their picture taken. They should also bring their existing bus pass.
Councillor Harry McLaren, Development and Environmental Services representative said: "This is an excellent initiative. Older and disabled people will now be able to travel the length of Scotland thanks to this significant investment by the Scottish Executive. More than 4,000 people locally hold bus passes. The new scheme comes in to place in April so people will be able to make the most of the free travel just as the good weather arrives."
The application forms are simple, asking for the person's name and address and signature. The Council will send the form and new photograph on to a bureau to produce the cards, which are due to be sent out to local people before the April start.
Existing bus passes must continue to be used until March 31st 2006.
Letters are being issued this week.
Anyone over the age of 60 or with a disability is entitled to the free card. If you do not received a letter or do not currently hold a bus pass, please contact the Council's Contact Centre on 01259 450000.