HACKNEY residents are being urged to renew their Freedom Passes by the end of March.

The passes, which provide free public transport across London for the over-60s and for disabled people, have been revamped by IT company, Fujitsu, after being awarded the contract by London Councils.

The new pass combines both Oyster and ITSO smart card technology with a photograph of the owner, rather than having to use a separate photocard, as is currently the case.

Cllr Nargis Khan, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “Freedom Passes provide free access to transport for many older and disabled residents in Hackney, and so it is important that residents have their passes renewed.”

Those needing to renew their pass can do so at the Post Office, and should take about 10 days.

Through a negotiation with Transport for London and the Association of Train Operating Companies, London Councils has secured an agreement to allow the old style passes to work as flash cards for a further two months as they no longer work on the card readers.

Freedom Pass holders who are waiting for their new pass to arrive will therefore still be able to travel. The old style passes will be accepted on all London buses, Tubes, trams and trains when shown to the ticket inspector or driver.

To apply for or renew a Freedom Pass, contact 0845 275 7054, email mobility@londoncouncils.gov.uk, or visit www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/freedompass/default.htm