RESTRICTING times when bus pass holders can travel for free is the latest money-saving move from council chiefs.

Residents are asked to give their views on proposed alterations to the concessionary bus pass scheme in Dorset in a six-week consultation ahead of possible changes coming into force next April.

Dorset County Council subsidises a scheme which allows bus pass holders free concessionary travel before 9.30am on services where the next bus is not until after 10.30am.

However in a move to save money and free up buses it is proposed to withdraw free travel for concessionary bus pass holders before 9.30am on weekdays.

This applies to almost 50 bus services, mainly in rural communities.

It does not affect the partially sighted and blind, who would still be able to travel free any time. The companion scheme for people with disabilities would still continue, and concessionary holders would still be able to travel anytime of the day weekends and public holidays.

The East Dorset scheme is also not affected as this is an enhancement scheme funded by East Dorset District Council for its own residents.

The county council says by ceasing to provide free concessionary travel before 9.30am, savings would be made that could enable it to "focus financial resources more effectively".

The changes will also allow for the wider use of school transport routes for public services.

But Simon Thompson from Dorset Community Action said: “While there may have to be savings, these must be made in a sensitive and flexible manner so as to protect the interests of those most affected – rural bus passengers.

"I hope that the ‘after 9.30am’ rule does not make it impossible for those passengers to utilise their free bus pass. We do not want a two tier service in the future."

Cllr Peter Finney, Cabinet member for environment, said: “The proposals to remove some subsidies on Dorset’s concessionary bus pass scheme are the latest in a long line of savings we are having to consider as a result of the unprecedented cuts in Government funding.

“Dorset County Council would continue to offers its residents a concessionary scheme over and above the national scheme, but the level of cuts we face mean we have little option but to consult on removing subsidised travel before 9.30am.

“The proposed changes will help to make the financial savings required to ensure as much funding as possible remains available to fund local bus services."

Cllr Finney added: “If these proposed changes are not made, it is likely to reduce our capability to support bus services across the county. This may mean more of Dorset’s bus routes and services are withdrawn in the future.”

The consultation runs until January 13.

Complete the questionnaire via dorsetforyou.gov.uk and follow the 'consultations' or 'Travel Dorset'. Hard copies are available at libraries and from the main reception of County Hall, Dorchester. You can also email htr@dorsetcc.gov.uk for a paper version.