Elderly may face travel cuts as ‘lifeline’ bus subsidy ends

The city council has been accused of getting its priorities wrong after withdrawing support for a community bus service used by the elderly and infirm.

The Kent Karrier dial-a-ride is considered a lifeline by many vulnerable passengers, especially in rural areas, but the local authority has decided it does not provide good value for money.

Last week, it voted to withdraw its £38,000 subsidy to Kent County Council, which is likely to result in a much-reduced service. It follows an examination of usage in Canterbury, Herne Bay and Whitstable, which revealed passengers were being subsidised by up to £40 each per journey.

Cllr Nick-eden Green was among those on the city council’s regeneration and property committee who voted against the cut.

After the meeting, he said: “The council has got its priorities all wrong.

“This service is considered a lifeline by most users who are among the most vulnerable in society and often unable to speak up for themselves. Yes, there is a cost to the council of £38,000, but compare that to the £639,000 it wants to spend on chopping trees down in the St George’s Street refurbishment – a scheme which nobody seems to want.”

The city council has provided a subsidy towards the service since 2008.

More than 150 passengers are signed up to it and pay £5 a year membership and up to £3.50 for a return fare in rural areas.

Many use it to travel to hospital.