Issue - meetings

Report number CHFR72 by the Cabinet.                       (Enclosure)

DECISION:

1.                The Council approves the cessation of the travel voucher scheme with effect from 1 January 2008 and to ease transition to the new national scheme, to permit residents to redeem vouchers until 31 March 2008.

2.                The Council approves the adoption of the minimum national concessionary travel scheme [9:30am to 11:00pm Monday to Friday, all day Saturday and Sunday and bank holidays (excluding carers)] as set out in the national framework, which will come into effect from 1 April 2008.

In moving the recommendation in CHFR71 and an additional recommendation that “The Council approves the adoption of the minimum national concessionary travel scheme [9:30am to 11:00pm Monday to Friday, all day Saturday and Sunday and bank holidays (excluding carers)] as set out in the national framework, which will come into effect from 1 April 2008,” the Assets and Resources Portfolio Holder stated that the national (England only) concessionary travel scheme would come into operation as of 1 April 2008. The motion was seconded.

Several Members spoke against the proposal to introduce the minimum scheme. They considered that the scheme would not provide suitable access to transport for the disabled. Carers were excluded from the scheme. Many places within the district did not have a regular bus service and bus routes did not have buses that were wheelchair accessible. A suggestion was made that consideration needed to be given to those who were housebound but could travel if they had access to private transport.

Those speaking in favour of the motion suggested that the scheme had to be limited because of the financial pressures it would place on the Council. There was no indication of the likely government grant to support the scheme, however, it was anticipated that it would not be sufficient to meet the full costs. Reference was also made to the 5% cap on Council Tax.

In summing up, the Portfolio Holder for Resources and Assets advised Members of the Council that the Local Strategic Partnership was carrying out a review of all the community car schemes across the District. It was hoped that proper co-ordination of these schemes could provide sufficient access to transport for those who did not have access to public transport either through disability or lack of local provision.

On being put to the vote, the motion to introduce the minimum national scheme and to extend the period in which travel vouchers could be used was carried.