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July 08.2025

2 Minutes Read

Monmouthshire Revises Home to School Transport Policy: What You Need to Know

Monmouthshire home to school transport policy changes landscape with text.

Understanding Monmouthshire’s Revised Home to School Transport Policy

Monmouthshire County Council has recently made significant changes to its home to school transport policy following a public consultation conducted between July 12 and August 23, 2024. This move is aimed at aligning the council with its statutory duties as detailed in the Learners Travel (Wales) Measures while responding to the escalating costs associated with school transport.

The Rationale Behind the Changes

Under the new policy, the council will revert to the legal distances required by law for home to school transport. Currently, the council’s provisions exceed legal requirements, which have contributed to increasing financial pressure. As stated by Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, “If we had the funding, we wouldn’t have done this.” For three consecutive years, Monmouthshire has faced cost pressures upwards of £20 million, which equates to 10% of its budget.

Ensuring Student Safety and Viability

The council is committed to ensuring that students living within two miles (for primary) and three miles (for secondary) have safe walking routes to their schools. Routes are assessed throughout the year to guarantee the most direct and safe pathways are identified. This procedure addresses concerns around student safety whilst promoting physical activity among learners.

Community Response and Next Steps

While the decision may lead to criticisms from parents and community stakeholders, it reflects a broader challenge faced by local councils across Wales. As Monmouthshire navigates budgetary pressures, it seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with the educational needs of its residents. The council encourages ongoing dialogue with the community and stakeholders to foster support for these necessary changes.

Conclusion and Forward Action

Stakeholders interested in understanding how these changes will impact local families are encouraged to engage with the council's new policies. By staying informed, community groups can assist in advocating for both responsible budgeting and the needs of students and their educational experiences.

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Monmouthshire Revises Home to School Transport Policy: What You Need to Know

Understanding Monmouthshire’s Revised Home to School Transport Policy

The Rationale Behind the Changes

Ensuring Student Safety and Viability

Community Response and Next Steps

Conclusion and Forward Action

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