Elisa Hilton

1:00pm - 4:00pm

Email the studio

Dermot Kennedy

Funeral

Listen Live

Mayor signals possible shift on bus pass ban following pressure from local MP

Friday, 10 October 2025 09:31

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough.

York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith has signalled he may review the rule that stops disabled people from using their bus passes before 9am.

It follows pressure from Harrogate and Knaresborough Liberal Democrat MP Tom Gordon.

In a response to Tom’s letter last month, the Mayor confirmed that the Combined Authority is “interested in exploring” changes to the current policy.

Tom welcomed the response as a positive first step, saying he is ready to work with the Mayor to make sure disabled people get fairer access to public transport.

He said:

“It’s good to see the Mayor recognising that this rule needs to change, that’s a welcome step forward.

“I’m keen to work with him and the Combined Authority to make sure this review leads to action, and that disabled people across our area can travel freely and fairly.

“Other parts of the country have already made this change, and York and North Yorkshire shouldn’t be left behind. Let’s get on and deliver it.”

This development follows months of campaigning by Tom, including his amendment to the Bus Services Bill which would have lifted the restriction nationally.

Other regions, including East Sussex and Greater Manchester, have already taken steps to remove or trial earlier travel for disabled passengers.

More from Local News

Free Fuel Friday: Another Harrogate resident wins full tank of fuel

A third Harrogate resident has won a full tank of fuel as part of our’Free Fuel Friday.’
Councillor Viv Poskitt officially elected as new Mayor of Harrogate

Councillor Viv Poskitt has officially been elected as the new Mayor of Harrogate for the 2026/27 civic year.
WATCH: Harrogate schools pay tribute to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday

A number of pupils across the Harrogate area have paid tribute to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday.
Harrogate teen shines at cheerleading world championships

A Harrogate teenager has helped her team achieve international success at one of the world's biggest cheerleading competitions in the United States.
Wickes plans to open new store on Ripon Road

DIY retailer Wickes has submitted plans to open a new store in Harrogate.
Which famous faces will be attending Your Harrogate's Local Hero Awards?

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards are set to return this evening for our biggest night of the year.
Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards

Finalists have been announced for the Knaresborough Business Awards 2026 ahead of a ceremony later this year.
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour

A Harrogate woman is walking 200 kilometres this month to raise money for brain tumour research in memory of her father.
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers

Harrogate has been identified as one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing locations for Land Rover interest, according to new audience data from Land Rover Monthly.
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities

The annual Big Harrogate Sleepout is set to return for a third year in support of two local charities.
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards

Harrogate-based Phase 4 Computers has been shortlisted in six categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for new powers to close cowboy vendors and restrict illicit vape shops on the high street.
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague

In memory of a late colleague, staff from Harrogate family law firm Jones Myers have donated vital equipment to help enhance the wellbeing and comfort of cancer patients.
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards return this week to shine a light on the selfless, dedicated and inspirational people across the Harrogate district.
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon

Police are appealing for information in relation to a public order that occurred in Ripon city centre.
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows

Over half (54%) of people in Yorkshire oppose the Government's proposed holiday tax, according to a major new poll.
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle

Harrogate horticultural charity Horticap is going even greener after securing sponsorship for a new electric van from developer the Banks Group.
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise

Harrogate-based IT provider Techbuyer has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district

A new partnership programme designed to support men's mental health across Harrogate district has secured funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough Castle repairs finally set to get underway

Reparation and restoration works are finally set to get underway at Knaresborough Castle, according to a local councillor.