Councillor Ali calls for free bus passes to remain

Rochdale’s Transport Boss Councillor Zulf Ali is hoping to secure the future of free bus passes for all pensioners.

The Local Government Association has this week called for senior citizens to be means tested to qualify for a free pass, saying that too many car-owners, or people who could afford public transport anyway, are taking advantage of the scheme, which costs taxpayers £1 billion a year.

But Councillor Ali wants to maintain the scheme in its present format and believes that millions of people could miss out if costs are cut.

He said: “If these proposals are accepted it would be a real step back for pensioners here in Rochdale. I know from my experience last year on the Greater Manchester Transport Authority that this scheme allows older people the freedom and independence they need whilst reducing the isolation and loneliness they may otherwise feel. To reverse this policy would be nothing short of perverse. I will be taking this issue up at my first meeting of the LGA’s Transport Board as a matter of urgency.”