BLIND and partially sighted residents in South Gloucestershire are "still waiting" to receive bus passes that will allow them to travel for free, according to Cllr Claire Young.

The Platinum travel card was launched in January 2017 to provide free travel for those who are sight impaired.

It is an enhancement to a current Diamond Card scheme that allows elderly residents in South Gloucestershire to use bus services for free.

However many blind and partially sighted people are reporting that they have yet to receive their new travel card.

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate Cllr Claire Young has demanded answers following confusion over when the bus passes will be issued.

She said: “Residents can't get a straight answer as to when they'll get their Platinum Cards.

"One told me he got a different story every time he called the council. One time they were waiting for the passes to be made, another they were waiting for the Metro Mayor to come in - despite the fact this is a South Gloucestershire scheme.”

She added: "Residents just want to know when they’ll see their new cards.

"Blind and partially sighted people particularly need good local public transport – they often have no other way of getting around.”

According to Cllr Young, residents were told that South Gloucestershire Council were transferring data onto a new computer system. This, she believes, has contributed to the delay.

Cllr Colin Hunt, the council's lead member for planning, transport and strategic environment responded by saying that the passes were printed and posted around two-to-three days before Cllr Young had raised the issue.

He said: “These new Platinum travel passes are being introduced to increase freedom and independence for those with visual impairments.

“The passes were printed and posted on April 7-8, prior to Cllr Young raising the issue, and should now be with all eligible residents.

He added: "If you have not yet received your pass do please get in touch with the Council.”

A South Gloucestershire Council spokesman also confirmed that all new applications had been processed, and that people should be receiving their cards in the post.

He added: “Platinum Travelcard holders will be able travel free of charge at all times, however any journeys starting before 9am, must start within South Gloucestershire.”