Older People's Strategy - Newcastle City Council

98Where we are nowOlder people have welcomed the introduction of free bus travelacross Tyne and Wear, but regret the impact that this may havehad on younger people and on some bus routes. The Gold Cardfor travel on the metro has also been welcomed, with an initialtake up of 100,127. The way in which operators implement changes in bus routesor the complete withdrawal of services, based solely oncommercial decisions, has a very significant impact on thequality of life of older people, particularly on housing estateswhich are poorly served by public transport. Proposals in Strongand Prosperous Communities (Local Government White Paper)to strengthen the role of Passenger Transport Authorities andExecutives and to devolve powers to local authorities to developa more coherent approach to transport will be welcomed. Transport infrastructure is also important to older people.For example, there needs to be provision of good bus shelterswith clear information, reduction of congestion at bus stops,planning of bus routes and the introduction of bus lanes. Older people will feel the benefit of improvements to the Metroas part of Project Orpheus (www.nexus.org.uk) includingimprovements to stations and platforms, compliance with theDisability Discrimination Act, new vehicles and better integrationwith the bus network.The quality of service from drivers can make all the differenceto the quality of the journey. This is particularly important forpeople with learning difficulties, poor mobility or sensory loss.Proposals for the development of a travel bureau which will