It's not only the mainline railway that gives Dawlish good communication (and scenic!)transport links. It's also near to, but just nicely far enough away from, the M5
The free bus passes mean other travelers are paying over the odds. Maybe it would be fairer if the pensioners passes were means tested. Basic pension is a pittance and anyone one it needs all the help they can get but others are probably better off than the average family
Trains cost thousands and the staff are paid well. If the buses were cheaper more paying people would use them it would be cost effective. The finance for free bus fares comes from council all pensioners get a free pass its not means tested is that really fair.If it was the same or cheaper for families to use public transport as it is in the rest of Europe then they would let the train/bus take ...
I use the train for work here and in Europe we have the dearest rail fairs maybe its because we are the only country in Europe tohave privitised the railway 100%.