Norfolk County Council plans 6% increase for post-16 travel

The two options proposed by Norfolk County Council include a 3% rise or a 6% rise

Norfolk County Council has proposed a 6% increase in the price of travel for young people post-16 who have remained in education.

The council has begun a public consultation on its proposal to increase the subsidised travel plans for students between 16-18 years.

The 6% increase was a reflection of the rising costs the council expected to encounter over the next year.

The council has aimed to generate £52.2m of new savings in 2024/25.

The council's Post16 travel scheme offered subsidised travel for eligible students aged between 16 and 18, who were travelling to sixth form, college or another educational provider.

Its proposals include two options: an increase of 3% or 6% to all payment plans.

'Based on current inflation'

In a letter to parents and guardians, the council said: "The 3% option is based on current inflation levels and the 6% option is based on our inflationary forecast for 2024/25.

"The 6% figure more likely represents the cost uplift that the council will face in the coming year."

The council said higher costs and demands, combined with a decade of reduced funding, has lead it to search for ways to balance its budget.

• Bus passenger numbers in Norfolk increase by 16%

In the letter, it also said the council had considered "the increased cost of living for our families and the impact any changes will have on our children and young people".

If approved, the proposals would be implemented in September. The consultation period closes at midnight on 27 February 2024.

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