The Island’s MP Andrew Turner has welcomed the announcement by Southern Vectis that they will increase the age for half-fare travel from 13 to 18 with effect from 1st September. He is currently out and about on his annual Summer Surgery which he says has been busier than ever this year. The biggest issue by far has been bus services, with the recent withdrawal of Student Rider and cuts in rural services causing people very real problems. Mr Turner has also received a very large amount of correspondence on these issues and has already raised both issues with Southern Vectis and the Isle of Wight Council.
He said,
“Commercial Services are a matter for Southern Vectis and subsidised services the responsibility of the Council but I am very concerned about these changes and also how the process was handled. It is obvious there is real anger amongst Islanders. Many elderly people in particular rely on these services and youngsters need to get to school at an affordable price.
“Student Rider filled the gap between children fares which currently finish at 13 years of age. I am very pleased that Southern Vectis have now taken the decision to raise the age limit on half fare travel to cover those currently entitled to travel on the Student Rider scheme.
“I understand the tremendous pressures that the Council is under, but I hope Southern Vectis and the Council can get together and examine the options for restoring some of the rural services that have been cut recently. If there is a role I can play in this I will do all I can to help.”
