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KCC first introduced the Kent Freedom Pass scheme in June 2007,
providing bus travel free at the point of use to students attending
school in three pilot areas (Canterbury district, Tonbridge town
and Tunbridge Wells district). Since then it has proven very
successful, encouraging children away from car travel and on to
Kent's bus network. The scheme was originally planned to roll out
across the county in 2009 however due to the success of the pilot
phase, in addition to considerable public demand, we are pleased to
announce that students attending school in four further areas will
be able to take advantage of the scheme a year early.
Areas added from June 2008:
- The remainder of Tonbridge & Malling district
- Dover district
- Maidstone district
- Shepway district
How do I apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria in order to apply
for the 2008/09 scheme:
- Academic year 7-11 at a
pilot school in September 2008
- Living within the administrative boundary of Kent County
Council
Application packs will be available to collect from pilot
schools in April and should be returned to the address printed on
the form, along with payment of £50 and a clear passport photo.
Passes will be distributed from 2 June 2008. Passes for new year 7
students will be available in school from September.
If you want to renew your 2007/08 Freedom Pass you must fill out a
new application form and tick the 'Renewal' box at the top. You
must include a further £50 payment, but do not need to submit
another photo. You can collect this form from your school after 2
June.
Applications for the 2007/08 scheme will be accepted until 31
May.
How do I get a replacement pass?
One replacement pass will be issued subject to an administration
fee of £10. To pay by credit or debit card please call 01622
605540; alternatively please send a covering letter and cheque or
postal order (made out to 'Kent County Council') to the following
address:
KFP Replacement, Transport Integration, Gibson Drive, Kings
Hill, West Malling, ME19 4QG.
Should the replacement be lost, damaged or stolen a further Pass
may be issued at a cost of £50, subject to discretion.
How can I use the pass?
The pass is valid at any time of day on any bus service open to
the public that is run by a
participating operator. Please note that some operators run
both public and private hire vehicles so please check that the
service(s) you require are included in the scheme before applying.
Journeys may cross the county border, but must start and/or finish
in Kent (excluding Medway).
For timetable information, or to plan your journey, please refer
to
Traveline (link opens in a new window) or
call 0871 200 22 33 (calls from landlines cost
10p per minute).
For detailed information about travel to secondary school please
visit the 11-19 Travel website (link opens in a new
window).
The Freedom Pass does not affect current free home to school
transport arrangements. Those eligible for free home to school
transport can chose to 'upgrade' their pass for use at evenings and
weekends, however all applicants must pay the £50 fee.
Further
information for pupils / parents is available, along with the
full terms & conditions. |