A concerned mother has cautiously welcomed the formation of a working group within North Lanarkshire Council to address the school transport issue. The council aims to save £3.6 million by adjusting the qualifying mileage limits for free school transport. Kerry Anne Ferrie’s eight-year-old son Sean, who attends Cathedral Primary in Motherwell, is among those who will be impacted. Despite the initial changes, there is hope for a review of the criteria following the passing of an SNP motion last week.
Kerry Anne Ferrie expressed her disbelief at the support for the motion, highlighting the need to assess school transport routes for safety and equality before implementing any changes. She emphasised the importance of prioritising child safety and remaining vigilant in ensuring fair and safe transport for all students. The revised criteria will also be applied retrospectively to secondary school routes to potentially reinstate some services.
Meanwhile, MP Pamela Nash commended the council for reviewing and updating transport criteria to focus on child safety. She acknowledged the efforts of parent campaigners in advocating for change and urged the Scottish Government to reconsider its stance on school transport guidance. Nash lamented the government’s refusal to reform its nationwide guidance on school transport, calling for greater collaboration between the government and local authorities to ensure consistent and safe transport provisions for all students.
The establishment of the working group signals a step towards addressing the concerns raised by parents and representatives in North Lanarkshire. As the review process unfolds, constituents are encouraged to engage with local representatives to voice their opinions on school transport and walking routes. The ongoing dialogue aims to create a more inclusive and secure environment for students across the region.