The Department for Transport has confirmed that Hastings Borough Council will receive a grant of £641,183 in 2010/11, an increase of 200,000, for the concessionary travel scheme. This follows a local campaign supported by Michael Foster MP to secure extra funding.

The concessionary travel scheme was extended by the government in April 2008 so that senior citizens and disabled people could travel free in off-peak times not only on buses in their own area but throughout the whole of England. Following a campaign spearheaded by Michael Foster MP and Labour Councillors that was further extended to a 9am start in Hastings.

Michael Foster MP said:

"The free bus pass is a popular policy giving thousands of older and disabled people in Hastings greater freedom and independence. Our local campaign for extra funds has paid dividends and the confirmation of the extra £200,000 is fantastic news for the town.

“Free bus travel has been a great boost for many people but the Tories have suggested it may not be worth the money and could be scrapped if they win the general election. That would be a disaster for many elderly people in the town.”