Issue - items at meetings - Concessionary Bus Travel - 3 Year Fixed Deals

Report of the Executive Director for Finance & Resources (copy attached).

(1)               That the forecast comparisons between the current fixed deal payments and the estimated level of reimbursement through the DfT model be noted;

(2)               That the progress made to date on the negotiations for new fixed deals; as set out in appendix 1 (in part 2 of the agenda) be noted; and

(3)               That the Executive Director of Finance &Resources, after consultation with the Chair of Policy & Resources Committee, be authorised to finalise terms for concessionary fares fixed reimbursement deals with both Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Company and Stagecoach South.

150.1    The Executive Director for Finance & Resources introduced the report which outlined the process of negotiations with the local bus companies and sought delegated authority to conclude the negotiations for a 3-year fixed deal concessionary bus travel contract.  She noted that the Department for Transport (DfT)had developed a reimbursement model for local authorities but that the council had previously entered into fixed deals with the local providers which were now due for renewal.  The intention was to seek to extend these fixed deals rather than use the DfT model as they would provide benefits to both parties that the model would not.

150.2    Councillor Davey stated that there was a need to conclude the negotiations and he hoped that an agreement could be reached as there was a significant cost to the council.  He also wished to commend the officers for their work on this matter to date.

150.3    Councillor A. Norman stated that the previous arrangements had worked well and she hoped that similar agreements could be achieved and also wished to acknowledge the officers on their work to date.

150.4    The Chair noted the comments and put the recommendations to the vote.

150.5    RESOLVED:

(1)         That the forecast comparisons between the current fixed deal payments and the estimated level of reimbursement through the DfT model be noted;

(2)         That the progress made to date on the negotiations for new fixed deals; as set out in appendix 1 (in part 2 of the agenda) be noted; and

(3)         That the Executive Director of Finance &Resources, after consultation with the Chair of Policy & Resources Committee, be authorised to finalise terms for concessionary fares fixed reimbursement deals with both Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Company and Stagecoach South.