The Government has confirmed that national off-peak restrictions on disabled people's concessionary travel will end on 1 April 2027.
David Smith has obtained confirmation that disabled people's bus passes under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme will become valid without the national off-peak restriction from 1 April 2027.
The North Northumberland MP raised eligibility for concessionary travel, including whether the qualifying age outside London should be reduced to 60.
Roads minister Simon Lightwood said the national scheme would continue to provide free travel to people with eligible disabilities and those of state-pension age.
The Government did not commit to lowering the age threshold or creating a separate entitlement for NHS staff retiring at 60.
Local authorities can use their own resources to offer concessions beyond the statutory scheme, including lower age thresholds or travel for additional groups.
The answer confirms a definite improvement for disabled pass holders from April, while leaving wider eligibility decisions with national rules and local discretion.
