Last updated on 14 January 2026
Free travel for older residents in Chessington could be affected as the future of London’s Freedom Pass comes under renewed scrutiny. Funded by all 33 London boroughs, the scheme’s annual cost will rise to £372m from April – an 11.8% increase – prompting warnings that it is becoming financially unsustainable.
The pass currently gives more than a million older Londoners free travel across Transport for London and national rail services. London Councils, which runs the scheme on behalf of the 33 London boroughs, is now reviewing the Freedom Pass’ long‑term viability and assessing the impact of possible changes. Options being explored include raising the qualifying age, introducing means‑testing, or removing free travel on national rail services within Greater London.
According to The Standard, Surbiton councillor Ian Manders said the Freedom Pass has become a major financial strain for Kingston Council. Despite recent increases to car parking charges, the extra income still falls short of covering the borough’s concessionary fares bill, which is set to rise by 14.9%. The pressure is intensifying local debate about how to protect valued concessions while managing tight budgets.
Any significant changes to the scheme would require Parliament to amend the Greater London Authority Act. As it stands, the Freedom Pass must cover all TfL services, including the Tube, London Overground, Elizabeth line and DLR.
The Oyster 60+ scheme, funded by TfL, is currently not under review.
Londoner Philip Clayton has started a petition to stop restricting Freedom Pass travel in London.