Disabled bus pass holders to benefit from free anytime bus travel on Wakefield services

People with disabilities will be able to travel on Wakefield buses for free at any time of day from today (Tuesday May 26).

Disabled and disabled companion bus pass holders will no longer have to pay for services before 9.30am on weekdays, connecting more people to jobs, training and opportunities and helping to reduce social isolation. Travel is already free after 9.30am and on weekends and bank holidays.

The change has been made by the Mayor and West Yorkshire Combined Authority, which will test its impact in the coming months ahead of a region-wide roll-out next year.

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said:

“Having a disability should not limit your access to work.

“This change will lift barriers to opportunity and help grow our economy by better-connecting people to jobs and training.

“It all ties into my plan for an easy to use, inclusive and affordable Weaver Network – helping to unlock our region’s potential.”

The Weaver Network is the West Yorkshire’s new, integrated transport network - joining up buses, trains, a mass transit system, walking, wheeling and cycling under one name.

The changes to the disabled pass scheme apply to any bus service journeys which start in the Wakefield district and a full list of services covered can be found at www.wyweaver.com.

Neil Newton, a trustee at Wakefield District Sight Aid, said:

"As both a member of Wakefield District Sight Aid and someone who is registered sight impaired, this announcement is a very welcome and positive step forward, not only for adults living with sight loss but everyone with a disability. It will provide valuable assistance in improving their day to day lives and activities and help reduce the risk of social isolation.

“I hope the trial proves successful and this scheme is implemented regionally in the near future.”

Cllr Keith Anderson, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Planning, said:

"Improved access to better bus services is something passengers across our district expect and deserve.

"It’s often far too hard for people to access training, job opportunities, and to live the independent lives that they want to.

“We welcome this step to make our local transport network more accessible. And we’ll be making a strong case to the Mayor of West Yorkshire for more improvements to public transport in our district.”

A new bus service – the 157 – and improvements to several others were also launched across the Wakefield district earlier this month, making it easier for communities to access Pinderfields Hospital.

The Mayor teamed up with bus operator Arriva, providing funding to deliver the new and improved services.