WILTSHIRE residents can give their views on proposed changes to concessionary bus fares from next year.

Wiltshire is the only local authority in the region that currently provides all-day concessionary passes to all eligible groups. But the service costs about £4.6m a year and the council says it needs to look at where it can make savings.

John Thomson, cabinet member for transport, said: “We will continue to fund free travel for the elderly and disabled but we want people to tell us when they use the free transport and what options would work best for them so we can make savings while ensuring people can enjoy the free travel and go about their business.”

Residents and other interested groups are asking for their views on proposed changes that could mean on weekdays bus passes would be valid after either 9am or 9.30am, which could save between £133,000 and £296,000 from the budget.

Free travel starting at 9.30am is already used in Swindon, Dorset, Hampshire and Gloucestershire The consultation is available at wiltshire.gov.uk/council/consultations.htm until September 26.

Any changes could be brought in from April next year.