First Bus restricts child travel after 6 PM in Stoke

First Bus has announced a new time restriction on unaccompanied child travel for its services in Stoke.

Starting from 6:00 PM today, Friday, 21st August, children aged 15 and under will need to be accompanied by an adult to travel to and from Hanley Bus Station.

This decision was made following consultations with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire Police, and has received approval from the Department for Transport.

The measure has been introduced to address ongoing issues of anti-social behaviour at the bus station and on board services.

The restriction will remain effective until further notice.

Bus drivers may use their discretion to allow free travel for unaccompanied children if they are deemed vulnerable or require assistance for their safety.

A total of 32 bus routes are affected by the 6:00 PM limit, with details available online.

Rebecca Arrowsmith, General Manager of First Bus in the Potteries, commented: "We have, regrettably, made the decision to introduce this change to the child free travel scheme to help prevent growing incidents of antisocial behaviour."

"The safety of our staff and customers is always our number one priority."

The list includes services such as Hanley to Northwood, Abbey Hulton, Coalville, Kidsgrove, and Stafford Town Centre.

The measure will undergo daily review with hopes of lifting the restriction as soon as possible.

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