Derek Deedman

Local Liberal Democrats have welcomed the extension from 1 April of free off-peak bus travel for over-60s and those with disabilities to anywhere in England using a single pass. And well done Horsham District Council in sending out the new passes to existing bus pass holders before 1 April. All those over 60 who do not yet have a pass should apply now to Horsham District Council.

But yet again the Government has introduced an excellent scheme without providing sufficient funds for councils to carry out the administration and for the bus companies to provide the services.

So a scheme which should encourage more people to get out and about, improving their lives and helping local economies, and using the buses rather than their cars, is being tarnished. Councils are having to consider cutting other council services to offset inadequate government grant, and bus companies might cut services because they are not receiving enough money from councils to cover the cost of the extra passengers!

Locally all existing bus services are continuing (including the 108 Wednesday shopping service to Horsham via Upper Beeding, Steyning and Ashurst), – but the 106 daily shopping service to Worthing still needs more passengers. And the summer timetable for the 2A still fails to link up with the 100 service times through Upper Beeding – so effectively no service for Small Dole residents wishing to go to/from Shoreham by bus.