As a result of coronavirus and news that some supermarkets will be opening for older people or those with a disability for their first hour of the day, the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is extending the hours when concessionary bus passes can be used.

Time restriction for use of the Diamond Travelcard (concessionary pass) was relaxed from Monday, so people can travel free at any time on journeys starting in the WECA and North Somerset areas. This will be reviewed at the end of June. At the moment, holders of a Diamond Travelcard bus pass for eligible older and disabled people can travel on any local bus for free after 9 a.m., Mondays to Fridays and all day at weekends for essential journeys.

WECA has made the change with the support of its constituent councils, Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire, as well as North Somerset Council and local bus operators, to enable these vulnerable groups to access the early shopping opportunities.

West of England Mayor Tim Bowles said: “I want to make sure that our most vulnerable members of society are still able to get essential supplies. Our retailers have stepped forward to make sure older and vulnerable people have the opportunity to get what they need and these changes will make sure they can make the most of that opportunity. Of course, we would urge everyone to follow the Government’s advice and only travel if it is absolutely essential.”

Councillor Dine Romero, Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “I am very grateful to all bus operators for their co-operation and prompt action in making this happen. We strongly recommend that our residents follow Government guidance, but those elderly

and disabled residents who really have to use buses will now have more flexibility about when they travel whilst this situation continues.”