In January 1997 Hampshire County Council commissioned the Transport Advisory Service to develop a strategy for the future provision of accessible transport which best meets the varying needs of elderly and disabled people whilst taking into account the resources available to the authority. The conclusions reached by TAS include: (1) A wide range of disabilities requires a wide range of solutions; (2) Making bus services more accessible should be a key priority - low floor buses with complimentary investment in stops, shelters and the pedestrian environment; (3) Dial-a-rides have a clear role for people with more severe disabilities who require a door to door service, complemented by accessible taxis and a taxicard concessionary scheme; and (4) An accessible transport network would have cross-sector benefits services for health and social services agencies. They should be encouraged to become partners in developing and funding the network. The detailed conclusions and recommendations in the study report will be subject to extensive consultation during 1998 to ensure that the strategy finally adopted by Hampshire County Council fully reflects the needs and aspirations of people with disabilities.
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