Derbyshire County Council U-turns on cut to B_line youth travel discount scheme to aid COVID-19 recovery

Cuts to the popular B-line discount scheme were proposed last September, with the council saying it was a service it was not legally obliged to provide and could not afford.

Now, a year on, Tim Gregory, the council’s director of economy, transport and environment has announced a change in tack due to the impact of COVID-19.

In a report prepared for deputy leader Simon Spencer, Gregory wrote: “In view of the current circumstances, it would seem counterproductive to withdraw a travel scheme primarily designed to encourage greater use of public transport by young people at a time when access to jobs and learning is paramount and when the need for sustainable travel has never been greater.

“The council’s economic recovery work has identified 16-25-year-olds as being specifically vulnerable to unemployment as a result of COVID-19 and within the emerging economic recovery strategy."

The report goes on to say: “As the council moves into the ‘revive’ phase of the recovery strategy, improved access to jobs and learning has been prioritised and this includes targeted support for young people.”

Coun Spencer has said: “We know how valuable B-line is for our young people and even in these difficult financial times we are committed to keeping it.”

The scheme currently entitles 60,000 people across Derby and Derbyshire to discount bus and rail travel. Most of those using the cards are school pupils but all residents aged 11-19 are eligible.

More than 500 businesses also provide discounts for card holders, including shops, gyms, cinemas and restaurants.

After the announcement of the proposed cuts last year, which would have saved £88,000, 355 signatures signed a petition to oppose the move, saying that the scheme was “essential” to young people, and those from poorer families in particular.

The pandemic has left the council facing an overspend of more than £45million – eight per cent of its total budget – by March.