Your Harrogate Radio

7:00pm - 8:00am

Email the studio

Run DMC vs. Jason Nevins

It's Like That

Listen Live

Harrogate MP challenges 'unfair' bus pass restrictions for disabled people

Tuesday, 18 February 2025 13:16

Tom Gordon MP has challenged a policy that prevents disabled people from using their bus passes before 9am.

Harrogate MP Tom Gordon has challenged the Transport Minister on the "unfair" policy that prevents disabled people from using their bus passes before 9am.

Mr Gordon raised this issue following a panel discussion he chaired last week, which provided disabled people with a platform to voice their concerns directly to key experts.

Organised by Disability Action Yorkshire, a local charity dedicated to empowering disabled individuals, the event brought together specialists in transport, housing, healthcare, employment, and town centre accessibility.

Community members shared their experiences, highlighting the significant challenges they face in accessing healthcare, navigating public transport, and securing employment.

One of the key issues raised was the inability for disabled people to use their bus passes before 9am.

This restrictive bus pass rule prevents disabled people from travelling at the same time as everyone else – whether for work, education, or social trips.

Tom said:

“Hearing disabled people in Yorkshire tell me last week that they are unable to use their disabled bus pass during peak hours completely shocked me. It is completely unacceptable and places unnecessary limitations on disabled people’s lives.

“This restriction prevents disabled people from doing what so many of us take for granted – using public transport at peak times to get to work, school, or town centres. It severely limits opportunities and reinforces inequality.

“As a society, we must work together to break down the barriers disabled people face daily.

“The government must take action and make meaningful changes.

“I hope the Minister agrees to meet with us and does not continue to ignore the needs of disabled people.”

Mr Gordon has written to the Minister requesting a meeting alongside Jackie Snape, Chief Executive of Disability Action Yorkshire, to further discuss how the government can address this issue proactively.

More from Local News

Harrogate Town Unveil New Home Kit for 2026/26 Season

After an incredible in-store reveal with Jack Evans this morning, the 2026/27 home shirt is now available.
Harrogate resident latest to scoop free tank of fuel

Free Fuel Friday returned this morning, giving Your Harrogate listeners the chance to bag a full tank of free fuel.
20-person brawl breaks out at Ripon pub

Police are appealing for witnesses following an assault and "large-scale disorder" at the One Eyed Rat pub in Ripon earlier this month.
RAF flypast planned over Harrogate district next weekend

A number of wartime aircrafts are set to fly over the Harrogate district next weekend.
Three hotels in Harrogate district named among best in UK by Telegraph

Three hotels in the Harrogate district have been named among the best places to stay in the UK by The Telegraph.
Petition calls for action to protect Knaresborough Castle

A petition calling for urgent action to protect and restore Knaresborough Castle is set to be debated by councillors after attracting more than 500 signatures.
Harrogate Car Enthusiasts Motor Show returns this weekend

Hundreds of vehicles and a range of family attractions are set to take over Harrogate Rugby Club this weekend as the Harrogate Car Enthusiasts Motor Show and Family Fun Day returns.
Solar panels installed at Ripon Leisure Centre to help cut energy bills

Nearly 1,000 solar panels have been installed at three North Yorkshire leisure facilities in a move that is set to reduce energy costs by hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Police make arrest after fight on Harrogate street

Police are appealing for information about a violent incident that occurred at Fairfax Avenue in Harrogate.
Harrogate IT business 'incredibly proud' to represent town at national awards

A Harrogate computer and IT business has been named as a finalist in four categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate school fair to showcase young musical talent

Young performers from Harrogate are set to take to the stage alongside professional musicians as part of a new live music event at Rossett Acre Primary School's annual Summer Fair.
Harrogate care team conquers 45km charity walk

A Harrogate care team has completed a 45km charity walk in scorching heat, raising more than £1,300 for two local organisations supporting older people.
Increase in shoppers being duped by AI 'High Street' scams

Shoppers hunting for online bargains are being duped by sophisticated scam websites that convincingly pose as well known UK high street retailers, North Yorkshire trading standards officers have warned.
Financial investigators brought in to examine council-owned house builder

North Yorkshire Council has brought in financial investigators to look into its loss-making housing company Brierley Homes, it has emerged.
Comedy legend to visit Harrogate as part of upcoming tour

Comedy icon Harry Enfield is set to visit Harrogate later this year as part of his latest UK tour.
Governors oppose battery storage site near Knaresborough primary school

The governing body of a primary school near Knaresborough has announced its opposition to plans for a large-scale battery energy storage system next to the school site.
Street rangers tackle benches and bird mess on Cambridge Street

Harrogate BID's Street Rangers have been carrying out cleaning work on Cambridge Street as part of ongoing efforts to keep Harrogate town centre looking its best.
Harrogate Cat Rescue issues update on kittens born with genetic condition

Two kittens with genetic bone problems have been making "fantastic progress" under the care of Harrogate Cat Rescue following an appeal to help meet ongoing vet expenses.
Harrogate MP launches campaign to save M&S café on Leeds Road

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has launched a campaign to 'save' the M&S café at the store on Leeds Road.
Paddling pool in Valley Gardens remains closed for maintenance

The paddling pool at Harrogate's Valley Gardens has been temporarily closed while further checks are carried out following issues identified during maintenance work.