Local MP Tom Gordon has renewed his push to scrap the 9:30am restriction on disabled bus passes during a parliamentary debate on free bus travel.
The Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough used the debate to push his campaign to scrap the restriction, stressing that the current rule ‘undermines independence and creates barriers to work, education and healthcare’.
He argued that lifting the restriction would be a ‘simple, affordable change’ that could even save public services money in the long run.
Tom also warned that giving local authorities powers without enough funding means they can’t make changes like this happen.
He highlighted that while Greater Manchester, under Andy Burnham, has trialled lifting the restriction, such progress is only possible where significant funding exists.
He made clear that a national funding plan is essential to ensure every disabled person can travel freely, not just those in well-funded regions.
Tom said:
“The 9.30am restriction creates unnecessary barriers for disabled people, making every day journeys harder and more expensive than they need to be. It is an outdated and unfair rule that must go.
“It’s encouraging to see Andy Burnham moving to lift these restrictions in Manchester, but progress like this is only possible where funding exists. We need a national funding plan so every disabled person can travel freely, not just those in well-funded regions.
“I will keep pushing until disabled people have the freedom, dignity, and independence to travel when they need to.”
This latest push follows Tom’s recent cross-party event in Parliament with charities Whizz Kidz, Bus Users UK, and Transport for All, where Andy Burnham backed the campaign.
Tom pledged to keep pressing the Government until the restriction is lifted nationwide.
Man taken to Leeds General infirmary following aircraft crash in Masham
Six arrested following car theft in Harrogate
FULL CHAT: Local occupational therapist hosts online masterclass to support new mums
Harrogate businesses reject new accommodation BID proposal
New interior showroom to open on Albert Street
Harrogate BID appoints new Chief Executive Officer
Conductor who painted for the King sets up gallery at Knaresborough station
Rudy's pizzeria announces Harrogate opening date
Harrogate community rallies to support family after loss of 9-week-old son
Swinton Estate appoints new general manager
Harrogate MP calls for 'fairer' student loan system
Council chiefs deny claims of conspiracy to remove committee chair
Pedestrian taken to hospital after collision near West Park
Council agrees £150,000 funding to reduce winter deaths
1,000 Smiles: Pateley Bridge woman wins £1,000 prize
Ripon pupils take alcohol-free fashion message to Parliament
Call for volunteers to support end of life care patients in Harrogate and Ripon
Council agrees council tax hike because they don't live "in world of unicorns and rainbows"
Rossett School launches £15,000 fundraiser for new minibus
Endometriosis charity event to be held in Harrogate next month
