MORE than half a million concessionary bus passes have been renewed, Transport for Wales have announced.

The Welsh train operating company has been managing the reissue programme on behalf of Welsh Government and Welsh local authorities to replace all over 60s and disabled persons’ bus passes with new-style Concessionary Travel Cards.

The original expiry date for the old bus passes was December 31, 2019, but last month Transport for Wales announced a period of grace and is urging those who are yet to apply to do so as soon as possible, before the February 29 deadline.

Recent figures reveal that 67 per cent of all existing active card holders have made an online application to renew and 83 per cent of users of cards in the last 12 months have also made an online application.

The Leader:

Ken Skates, Minister for Economy and Transport said: “This is an important milestone and one that demonstrates the scale of the work that has been undertaken so far.

“The grace period is ongoing and once again I would like to encourage anyone who hasn’t renewed to apply and ensure you can continue to benefit from the bus pass in the long-term.”

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO added: “It’s great that we’ve renewed over half a million bus passes and I’d like to thank everyone who has applied so far.

“Our figures indicate that we are making good progress in our renewal programme, however, can those who have not yet applied, please do so before the January 31 deadline.

“Transport for Wales is transforming transport throughout Wales and creating a unified transport network is one of the key objectives.”

To apply for a renewed travel pass, call 0300 3034240 or visit www.tfw.wales/travelcards.