Decision details

Kent Freedom Pass including Post 16 Transport

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

Redraft received: Proposed decision 13/00095/2 as set out below:

 

To seek approval to replace the existing Freedom Pass with a new scheme called the Young Persons Bus Pass. 

 

The new scheme is still subject to finalisation with bus companies and schools, and is aimed primarily at assisting with travel costs to school by providing unlimited travel on buses from 6am until 7pm Monday to Friday throughout the academic year i.e. from 1st September to 31st July, but could not be used in August. 

 

The proposed cost of the new pass is £200 with a reduced fee of £100 for parents of children eligible for a free school meals and would continue to be free for Looked After Children and registered young carers.

 

This scheme is to be subject to an Equality Impact Assessment and consultation.

 

Should it be adopted, the new scheme will become effective from 1st September 2014.

 

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Following comments raised by members of the public and KCC Members, proposed decision 13/00095 has been withdrawn and a redrafted scheme will be put forward under issue number 13/00095/2 in the near future.

 

The new scheme will be subject to consultation and will be published on the FED for 28 days before it is taken.

 

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Proposed decision 13/00095 - To seek approval for the introduction of a stored value smartcard providing £350 value for 11-16 year olds and £250 for 16-19 year olds at an unchanged purchase cost of £100. This will be reviewed after 6 months of introduction.

Decision:

The Cabinet Member for Environment & Transport, has agreed to introduce a new Young Person’s Travel Pass for 11-16 year olds for the academic year commencing September 2014.  The new Pass will cost £200 per annum and will replace the current Freedom Pass Scheme which currently costs £100 per annum.  Usage of the Pass will be limited to Monday to Friday 06:00 to 19:00 and from the start of the academic year to 31st July. An option of two six monthly payments will be offered.

 

He has also agreed to set the cost of the Young Person’s Travel Pass for pupils entitled to free school meals at £100 per annum.  Looked After Children and Young Carers will receive the new Pass free of charge.

 

He has also agreed to reduce the cost of the Kent 16+ Travel Card from £520 to £400, this card will have unlimited travel use.

 

And as a result of the views expressed at the Cabinet Committee, he has further agreed that the Young Person’s Travel Pass scheme be reviewed 6 months after implementation.

 

Urgent item?: Yes

Publication date: 08/05/2014

Date of decision: 07/05/2014

Accompanying Documents: