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Democratic ServicesWiltshire Council
County Hall
Trowbridge
Wiltshire
BA14 8JN
Decision details
Approval for temporary extended use of concessionary bus passes
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: No
Decision:
To approve the temporary extended use of
Concessionary Bus passes issued by Wiltshire Council, to enable
travel prior to 9.30am for disabled and age related pass
holders.
Reasons for the decision:
This decision would in other circumstances be
taken by the Cabinet. However, in circumstances where the Cabinet
is unable to meet to expedite its functions in a timely manner
during the COVID-19 pandemic, this decision is being taken in
accordance with the power referred to under 'Background'. This
decision will be reported to the next meeting of the Cabinet.
The government has requested that all English local authorities re
instate the use of the pass pre 9.30am, in a bid to support the
elderly and disabled in accessing supermarkets before they get too
busy during the day. Many supermarkets are opening early and making
the first hour of the day exclusively available for the elderly and
disabled.
The use of public transport before 9.30am by Concessionary bus pass
holders has not been possible in Wiltshire since 2015 when this
ceased in accordance with Cabinet measures introduced at that time
to address austerity. Following the advent of the Coronavirus and
the need to support the vulnerable where possible, it is
appropriate to re-introduce this provision on a temporary basis.
The reduction in local bus schedules and the need for social
distancing means that many vulnerable residents
will have less opportunities to travel and shop for food and other
essential items as well as attending medical appointments. This
measure provides additional support to enable people to access
goods and services when necessary.
The cost of introducing the scheme will be nil, as we will continue
to pay concessionary fare levels at the same rate as we did this
time last year, when pre 9.30am travel was not permitted.
I confirm that in making this decision I have considered the
following in line with Wiltshire Council’s Constitution:
Yes
Key decision requirements:
Views of relevant cabinet member(s), committee chairman, area
board(s): No
Consideration of the area boards and delegated decision checklist
for officers on the issue of when and how to involve local
councillors and area boards in decisions about local services:
N/A
Implication of any council policy, initiative, strategy or
procedure: Yes
Consultation in accordance with requirements and expectations
of
consultation with the public: No
Range of options available: No
Staffing, financial and legal implications: Not applicable
Risk assessment and equality implications: Not applicable
Involvement of statutory officers and/or directors: Yes
Regional or national guidance from other bodies: No
The council’s constitution: No
This contract is suitable for execution under the e-signature
process: N/A
Alternative options considered:
To do nothing. This option was not pursued as
to do so would be contrary to the council’s aims at this
time.
Conflict of Interest: Not applicable
Background: As the Director for Communities and Neighbourhood, I am responsible for any matters relating to Passenger Transport in the County of Wiltshire on behalf of Wiltshire Council. The power to make a decision in respect of this matter is delegated to me pursuant to Wiltshire Council’s Constitution.
Contact: Jessica Gibbons, Director - Neighbourhood and Community Services Director of Communities and Neighbourhood Services Email: jessica.gibbons@Wiltshire.gov.uk Tel: 01225 713177.
Publication date: 18/05/2020
Date of decision: 16/04/2020
Accompanying Documents: