North Lanarkshire Council to review school transport criteria after controversial bus cut

North Lanarkshire Council has confirmed it is reviewing its school transport criteria after facing backlash following a controversial bus cut.

At the beginning of the new term in August, it was announced that children who live more than three miles from school would be eligible for free transport, a reduction from the current two-mile requirement.

Concerned parents staged a protest in February to highlight the dangers many pupils face on their walks to and from school.

However, the local authority has since confirmed a review of the school transport criteria will now be carried out following a meeting on October 3.

A spokesperson from North Lanarkshire Council said, “At a meeting of the council on Thursday, October 3, it was agreed to establish a member/officer working group to examine the criteria for providing school transport, taking into account pupil safety. This will include consideration of factors such as the nature of walking routes.

“Any recommendations from the report will be submitted at a meeting of the council in due course.”

SNP Group Leader Tracy Carragher added: “I am relieved that the Labour administration has finally recognised the importance of this issue and did not oppose the motion today for the sake of political point scoring.

“Throughout the review process, Councillors from all parties have expressed concerns about the safety of walking routes. It is only logical to take action to ensure these routes are safe. We can now finally revise the current criteria to make sure it is fit for purpose.”