COLCHESTER’S MP has said a council should focus on getting more people to use the town’s Park and Ride scheme rather than axe free travel for pensioners.

Will Quince has spoken out against Essex County Council’s plans in a letter to council leader David Finch.

The council is consulting on the proposal which could mean a return trip to the town centre for those with older people’s bus passes would cost £1.50 per person.

All concessionary pass holders currently travel for free after 9am.

County Hall says the concessionary fares scheme at park and rides across Essex costs it around £447,000 a year in lost revenue.

In order to make savings it could stop free travel for pensioners, which it is not legally obliged to provide.

There were 251,598 passenger journeys from the Park and Ride last year, of which more than half, 131,000, were concessionary pass holder trips.

Mr Quince has called on the council to rethink its proposals.

He said: “Loneliness and social isolation is a real problem faced by many elderly residents.

“The use of the Park and Ride concessionary bus pass enables them to visit Colchester town centre for free, while increasing footfall to our local shops.

“The scheme also pays a valuable role in reducing congestion and air pollution in our town centre.

“I entirely support the council’s drive to ensure value for money but, in my view, the key is encouraging more people to use the park and ride and increasing revenue that way, not removing concessions.”

Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for concessionary fares, said: “We welcome all views on proposed changes to concessionary fares at our Park and Ride services across the county.

“We know just how important they are for many people, including those who are concessionary pass holders and, therefore, want to ensure passengers are getting the best possible service and experience.

“No decisions have been made regarding concessionary fares and the consultation closes on July 31. We would urge as many people as possible to complete the survey and have their say by the deadline.”

The consultation will run until July 31. Visit consultations.essex.gov.uk.