How scrapping pensioner bus pass restrictions will affect Bolton

The change means thousands of local residents will no longer have to wait until mid‑morning to board a bus without paying, giving them more flexibility for hospital appointments, work, volunteering and childcare.

What exactly is changing?

From Friday, March 1, anyone with a Greater Manchester Older Person’s or Disabled Person’s concessionary pass will be able to travel free at any time of day on Bee Network‑operated buses.

Until now, free travel was only available after 9.30am on weekdays, with early‑morning journeys charged at full fare.

Who benefits?

The change applies to:

• Older Person’s Pass holders (from state pension age)
• Disabled Person’s Pass holders

Bolton has one of the highest numbers of concessionary pass users in Greater Manchester, so the impact will be felt across the borough, from Farnworth and Horwich to Westhoughton, Breightmet and the town centre.

Why is the restriction being lifted?

Transport for Greater Manchester says the move is designed to:

• Help with the cost of living
• Make early‑morning travel easier for medical appointments
• Support older and disabled people who work or volunteer
• Encourage more people to use buses as the Bee Network expands

Local leaders say the change will give residents “more freedom to travel when they need to”.

Bolton pensioners can travel for free from March 1.

Do I still need to tap my pass?

Yes, the rules for using your pass stay the same: tap your pass on the reader when boarding.

Residents should remember to carry the physical pass and renew it when required.

The only difference is when you can travel for free.

What about trams and trains?

The March 1 change applies to buses only.

Concessionary rules for Metrolink and rail services remain unchanged.

What this means for Bolton?

For many older and disabled residents, the change will make everyday life easier, whether that’s getting to Royal Bolton Hospital for early appointments, helping with school runs, or simply travelling while it’s lighter in winter.

From March 1, if you’re travelling on a Bee Network bus, you’ll be able to board free of charge at any time of day.