STAGECOACH URGED TO EXTEND DISCOUNTED TRAVEL FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO 14 & 15 YEAR OLDS

10.23.14am GMT Fri 13th Nov 2009

Fourteen and Fifteen year olds in Torbay could be paying up to double the bus fare of 16-19 year olds after a discounted travel scheme has been brought in by Stagecoach and Torbay Council.

As a result, the Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Torbay Council, Steve Darling, has written to Stagecoach urging them to extend the special £1 fare for 16-19 year olds, which allows them to travel anywhere in the Bay between 6.30 pm and 10.30 pm, to fourteen and fifteen year olds.

Councillor Darling's letter to Stagecoach says, "

"I am writing regarding the introduction of reduced cost travel for 16 - 19 year olds in the Torbay area, which means that they can travel around the area for a £1 fare.

I was delighted that Stagecoach has introduced this initiative.

However, I feel that this reduced rate is unfair for the 14 - 15 age group, who despite paying the 'child' fare, will still pay more than 16-19 year olds. For example, a 14 or 15 year old travelling by bus from Chatto Road to Paignton town centre would pay £2.55 for a return journey. 16-19 year olds will only pay £1.

Would it be possible for the £1 scheme to be extended to 14 and 15 year olds so that they can get equal treatment on the buses?"

Commenting on his letter Councillor Darling said, "This new scheme is to be welcomed - however it will leave some young people paying more than others for the same bus journey. It would be great if Stagecoach could extend the scheme to 14 and fifteen year old's."