In message 01c871a1$00336260$LocalHost@default, Michael R N Dolbear
writes
Ian Jelf wrote
I do wonder if the "local bus" aspect of the new concessionary pass
will
sometimes lead to confusion as to what does and does not constitute a
"local bus". Trent's TP service is one "grey area" I'd say. There
also was once a National Express service which became a local bus for
part of its length in the Pennines somewhere I seem to recall.
Tour buses such as City Sightseeing also advertise "local fares
available" (I understand to get some sort of deal with diesel duty).
I
wonder if that might make *them* liable to carry 60+ passengers free
of
charge? Test case coming I suspect!
Free to pass holders, but I understand the District or Borough where
they get on will have 60 fares to pay to the bus operator from their
budget.
That will be a distinct shock to the sightseeing operators, I suspect!
Of course if the service is "operated on behalf of XXX
Council" this may be a transfer from one public purse to another.
Few of these sightseeing services are so operated.
I noted that the 2007 summer-only "Royal Landscape Link" service. Ride
Pegasus! (First in Berkshire) 300 (Virginia Water Station - Windsor via
Windsor Great Park)
has
Concessionary Fare Permits are not valid on this service
This service is supported by Royal Parks and Savill Garden
Yes I noticed that last year. It made me wonder at the time if
operators *can* choose to opt out of accepting concessionary passes on
commercial services.
Doubtless, someone will soon be posting here with answers to these
and
many other questions.
The Freedom Pass site has :
Q. What is the definition of a 'local' bus?
A. The definition of a 'local bus' will be self-evident in most cases,
but in a few instances could include some longer distance buses and
coach services where
part of their route is registered as a local bus service. If in doubt,
freedom pass holders can check with the service operator or local
Transport authority in that area.
Of course, however much a "grey area" the nature of the registration of
the service will give a definitive answer to this one. Should have
thought of that.
--
Ian Jelf, MITG
Birmingham, UK
Registered Blue Badge Tourist Guide for London and the Heart of England
http://www.bluebadge.demon.co.uk