Overview

• The photocard’s foregone revenue climbed from £51 m in 2021/22 to £84 m in 2023/24, amounting to £206 m over the past three years.
• TfL raised the 60+ Oyster card application fee from £20 to £35 and increased the annual eligibility check from £10 to £18 in July 2025.
• Intergenerational think-tanks argue the blanket concession disproportionately benefits wealthier retirees at the expense of younger commuters.
• Advocacy groups contend free travel for over-60s prevents social isolation and supports unpaid care, noting TfL estimates a third of trips would not occur if fares applied.
• Reports say the Transport Secretary has urged above-inflation fare rises through 2030, heightening pressure on the Mayor to reassess all travel concessions.