A sweeping review by London's local authorities could see more than 1.2 million people aged over 60 and state pensioners stripped of their free bus passes. The cherished Freedom Pass, a lifeline for many, is under intense scrutiny as its cost to taxpayers is projected to hit a staggering £372 million in the 2026-2027 financial year.
Financial Strain Forces Major Concession Review
The organisation representing the capital's 33 boroughs, London Councils, has confirmed a comprehensive assessment of the Freedom Pass scheme is underway. The driving force is a near 12 per cent rise in the annual bill, pushing the cost beyond what many boroughs say they can sustainably bear.
Stephen Boon, Chief Operating Officer at London Councils, stated plainly to the London Standard: "It is costing more than boroughs can afford." He explained that officials are conducting the review to help councillors fully "understand what the options are and what the consequences could be."
Councillors Voice Grave Concerns Over Sustainability
The financial pressure is being felt acutely at a local level. Alexander Ehmann, a Liberal Democrat cabinet member in Richmond, described the rising cost as "concerning," warning of a "toxic cocktail" as his borough faces £30 million in cuts for three years running. He stressed that the scheme's "sustainability to local authorities is critical."
In Kingston, cabinet member Ian Manders labelled the Freedom Pass an "expensive burden." He revealed that even increased car parking charges do not cover the borough's spending on concessionary fares. Mr Manders also questioned current rules, asking: "As a borough with no London Underground stations but with railway stations, why does our concession start later [in the morning]?"
What Changes Could Be on the Horizon?
The review is set to explore several potential options to curb the escalating costs. These controversial measures could fundamentally alter one of London's most valued concessionary travel benefits. The options reportedly under consideration include:
- Raising the eligibility age at which Londoners receive the Freedom Pass.
- Making the pass means-tested, so it is only available to those on lower incomes.
- Excluding national rail services within Greater London from the scheme.
Funded by London boroughs and the City of London Corporation through parking permits and traffic fines, the scheme's future is now uncertain. The outcome of this review will directly impact the mobility and independence of over a million Londoners, sparking a major debate on the balance between vital public services and fiscal responsibility.
