A SCHEME enabling those with transport problems get around more easily is to be launched in Radlett.

The taxi voucher scheme has come about as Aldenham Parish Council tries to address the difficulties caused by the cancellation of the 311 bus service.

The route change has left shoppers, particularly the elderly, with a long walk to the south end of Watling Street, where the doctor's surgery, post office and library are situated.

The idea for the initiative, which is the first in Hertfordshire to get Government funding, came from a company in Nottingham.

According to parish councillor Mr Ron Worthy, the scheme will start "as soon as possible" now the vouchers are back from the printers.

It was hoped the service would be up and running by April but, after a breakdown in negotiations, when one taxi firm refused to take residents from a particular home, Civic Cars are now on board.

The taxi company in Watling Street will accept the £2.50 vouchers as payment for journeys which are not confined to the village.

Mr Worthy emphasised it is not only the elderly who are eligible for the scheme.

Qualifying factors include not having transport or access to transport or anyone with mobility problems.

Speaking at a council meeting on Tuesday, June 25, Mr Worthy urged anyone with transport needs to come forward.

He said: "It is a needs test, not a means test. Money does not come into it. It is need of transport. It could be a single parent or a younger disabled person."

So far 25 people have qualified for the scheme and the council has not turned any applicants away.

For further details, telephone Aldenham Parish Council on 01923 856433 and ask for Ms Roberta Floate.

June 26, 2002 18:00