Key Points
- · From September 1, 2025, Bolton pensioners will once again face time restrictions on their free bus travel passes.
- · Free bus travel for pensioners will be limited to between 9:30 am and midnight each day.
- · The previous unrestricted travel period for older people, which allowed free travel at any time, has ended.
- · This change has been confirmed ahead of the new travel policy reimplementation.
- · The travel pass scheme is part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.
- · The changes come amid wider regional adjustments to bus services and fare policies.
- · There are ongoing discussions and campaigns regarding bus pass usage times for disabled individuals in nearby regions.
- · The policies are managed in cooperation with Transport for Greater Manchester and local councils.
- · Financial sustainability and funding constraints continue to influence transport concession decisions.
What changes will Bolton pensioners face regarding bus travel from September 1, 2025?
As reported by the Telegraph journalist on August 30, 2025, Bolton pensioners will once again face time restrictions for free bus travel starting Monday, September 1. These restrictions will limit the times when pensioners can use their free bus passes to between 9:30 am and midnight daily. The earlier period of unrestricted travel at any time is being ended, reinstating limitations that had previously been lifted.
This policy adjustment means that pensioners who were previously able to travel without time constraints will now need to plan their journeys within this specified window. Travel outside these hours will require them to pay normal adult fares.
How is free travel for older people currently regulated in Greater Manchester and Bolton?
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) manages a concessionary travel scheme that allows older residents who qualify for the state pension to travel free on local buses within the Greater Manchester area, which includes Bolton. The scheme permits free travel on local buses from 9:30 am to midnight Monday to Friday, and all day on weekends and public holidays.
According to TfGM's publicly available guidelines, pensioners can get a free older person's travel pass if they live in Greater Manchester and qualify for the state pension, regardless of whether they are currently retired or still working. Travel outside the free travel hours requires payment of adult fares.
Bolton Council highlights that travel passes for pensioners, students, and disabled people are managed by TfGM, part of the wider regional transport network framework. The council notes eligibility and application procedures but follows the same timing and usage rules established by TfGM.
Why are these time restrictions being reinstated?
The reinstatement of travel time restrictions for pensioners is partly related to financial pressures and the sustainability of local transport funding. Regional councils and transport authorities have been making difficult choices to balance concessionary travel benefits with budget constraints. Similar policy adjustments and service revisions have been seen across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, where transport operators and councils are revising timetables and fare concessions amid limited funding.
The revised policy reflects an attempt to manage the cost of concessionary travel while maintaining essential access for older residents. The earlier time window allows pensioners flexibility during most of the day while controlling costs associated with unrestricted free travel.
How does this relate to other changes and campaigns concerning bus passes in nearby areas?
The issue of bus pass usage hours is also under discussion for disabled passengers in nearby regions. BBC News reported in May 2025 that disabled commuters, represented by advocates such as Hans Gording of Disability Action Yorkshire, are calling for an extension of free bus travel hours before 9:30 am. Mr. Gording described the current restriction as a disadvantage for disabled workers who need to commute during early hours.
Local MPs and disability campaigners highlight a postcode lottery affecting disabled bus pass holders across England, with varied start times for free travel in different councils. The Department for Transport acknowledged these issues and stated that local authorities have the power to allow earlier free travel times, with 77% of councils already doing so.
These related campaigns and policy discussions show an ongoing regional conversation about making bus travel more accessible for vulnerable groups during all necessary travel times.
What wider bus service changes are happening in the region?
Alongside the pensioner pass time restrictions, there are timetable and service adjustments taking place across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. For instance, Stagecoach and Blackpool Transport have announced changes to bus schedules to improve reliability and adjust for school start times and seasonal periods.
In Bolton specifically, night bus trials are being launched as part of the Bee Network scheme, restoring a level of local control over bus services. Transport for Greater Manchester officials have stated that these pilot night routes serve workers and employers in the night-time economy, reflecting efforts to enhance public transport accessibility.
Additionally, Bolton Wanderers Football Club has confirmed the continuation and adjustment of official matchday bus services for the 2025/26 season, indicating ongoing commitment to supporting public transport during special local events.
How are pensioners and other bus pass users affected financially and practically?
Pensioners in Bolton who hold concessionary travel passes can continue to receive free travel during the hours of 9:30 am to midnight, but journeys before 9:30 am will now require payment. This change impacts those who may have previously relied on unrestricted travel, such as early appointments or visits outside regular hours.
The transition back to restricted hours means pensioners must be mindful of travel times to avoid paying fares. TfGM reminds pass holders that touching in on buses and tram/trains using validators is necessary to keep passes valid.
Disabled people and younger people may also face changes in discounted fares and concessions in some neighbouring councils, as budget realignments affect supplementary benefits beyond national schemes.
What is the official stance of the Department for Transport on these changes?
The Department for Transport (DfT) recognises the importance of concessionary bus passes in providing access to employment, education, essential services, and social connections for pensioners, disabled people, and others who benefit from free travel schemes.
The DfT emphasises that local authorities have discretion to extend travel hours and are working on reforming bus services to increase reliability and reduce fares where possible. However, the department acknowledges the need for councils to evaluate spending and make difficult choices in light of restricted budgets.
What support and advice are available for Bolton residents regarding travel passes?
Residents of Bolton who qualify for the older person's bus pass or disabled person's pass can apply or renew their passes through Transport for Greater Manchester or Bolton Council. The TfGM website offers guidance on eligibility, how to apply, and managing passes, including updating personal details and rules for use.