City of York Council will next week finalise plans for the operation of the Government's new national half fare bus pass scheme in York.

From April, the council will issue passes free of charge to pensioners and people with disabilities, which will enable them to travel throughout York and North Yorkshire at half fare on buses.

The city council has been working in partnership with the other district councils in the county to ensure pass- holders can enjoy the benefits of travel throughout the area.

People in York who already hold the council's senior citizens' bus pass will be sent a new pass direct to their homes.

During April, the council will also be holding sessions in the Guildhall and local parish halls where others can come to collect their passes.

The council will continue to provide Transport Tokens for people who are unable to use bus services. The tokens will also be available from April.

Roy Templeman, director of environment and development services, said: "Many people will find it cheaper to get around under the new scheme. Pensioners and people with disabilities will be able to decide whether a bus pass or tokens best meets their needs."

James Player, of York Age Concern, said: "The new scheme will demonstrate parity for older people throughout the country as some councils are more generous than others when it comes to transport provi-sion.

"City of York Council have always been generous in this respect and we will just have to see how this new scheme works out in giving people the same chances na-tionwide."

The issue will be discussed at the next chief officer in consultation with executive member meeting for planning, transport and the environment next Friday.

Updated: 10:09 Saturday, January 27, 2001