Flintshire Ring and Ride Service Facing Potential Review

Hey, I have some local news to share with you. A transport scheme helps residents. It offers low-cost, door-to-door rides. People who cannot use buses benefit. The scheme has helped over 1,000 people since 2017.

The council may review this transport program. Demand is too high for the budget to continue. Over 7,000 bookings happened since 2000. People travel to health appointments mostly. The service’s cost will exceed its budget. It could be more than £40,000 over for 2024/25.

More people are using it beyond its goals. The council suggests changes for the service. They may withdraw it from ineligible users. They also might raise annual fees and charges. This could balance the budget again.

Currently, users pay £10 yearly to register. They also pay 45p per mile for each ride. The charges have not changed since 2017. The council plans to raise the registration fee to £20. They also want a minimum charge of £2.50 per trip. This charge is for rides five miles or less.

A council officer thinks the service is useful. It helps those with mobility issues. Riders cannot always use regular transport. It takes them right to their appointments. The officer says the scheme should keep going. It is vital for those who really need it.

Essential, eligible journeys must be the focus. The council will help connect people who can’t use it anymore. They will suggest alternate transport options.