PENSIONERS will be able to make journeys around Darlington for 30p before 9.30am after a new deal was struck.

Until now, concessionary bus pass holders were only able to use their pass after 9.30am and had to pay full price for journeys before that time.

The new deal means that from July 1, they can pay a flat fare of 30p before 9.30am, bringing Darlington in line with the rest of the Tees Valley.

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Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “Concessionary bus passholders have been asking for the introduction of a flat fare before 9.30am for years and I’m delighted that, with TVCA’s support, we’ve been able to make that happen.

“Passengers tell us that they often need to travel early morning to access healthcare appointments, as well as for work and childcare needs, and this funding will allow them to do that in an affordable manner.

“This new arrangement makes Darlington passengers the same as everyone else across the Tees Valley and will hopefully mean more people can access public transport.”

The Northern Echo: Darlington councillor Andy Keir Darlington councillor Andy Keir

Concessionary bus pass holders will be able to travel anywhere in the borough and wider Tees Valley using the flat fare.

An agreement  was struck between bus operators and the Tees Valley Combined Authority.

The flat fare of 30p will start each day from the first service offered until 9.30am and will start on Friday, July 1.

Travel with a concessionary bus pass is free between the hours of 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays.

The move brings Darlington into line with the rest of the Tees Valley, where a deal was already in place for pre-9.30am travel.

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Concessionary passes are those available to people of pension age or who meet the national criteria for a travel disability.

For more information on the concessionary bus pass scheme, or to apply for a pass, visit www.darlington.gov.uk/bus-pass

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