Warwickshire residents are being given the chance to have their say on possible changes to free transport to school in the county.

Warwickshire County Council (WCC) has launched a public consultation on its 'home to school' transport policy as it looks to grapple with rising costs.

Recent numbers from the local authority showed the costs of this service have risen from £17.9 million in 2018/19 to £50 million this year.

"Warwickshire County Council is consulting on changes being proposed to the Home to School and College Transport Policy," the consultation said. 

"These changes are to bring the policy in line with national guidance; clarify the wording on the Home to School and College Transport policy (to be Children's and Young People's Travel Assistance policy); and ensure Warwickshire County Council is meeting its statutory requirements whilst providing an efficient service.

"Like local authorities up and down the country, Warwickshire County Council continues to face extreme financial challenges. 

"The council is committed to providing more efficient, integrated services whilst ensuring that its statutory duties are met.

"We would like to hear all views on these proposals including levels of support or opposition. 

advertisement

"We are also seeking views on any suggestions you may have to improve our proposals."

Residents have until January 4 to respond.

The home to school changes have hit national headlines recently after council leader Cllr George Finch wrote to the secretary of state asking for WCC to have the ability to change the minimum eligibility requirements for free school transport.

Currently children over eight are eligible for free travel to their nearest suitable school if they have to walk over three miles, and two miles for those younger.

The Reform UK councillor claimed raising the minimum distance by one mile would reduce the number of eligible children in Warwickshire by eight per cent (800 children), or by 16 per cent if it was increased by two miles (1,600).

He was criticised by fellow Warwickshire councillors and by education secretary Bridget Phillipson who described the plan as "Victorian".

See the consultation here.