Runnymede Councillors have approved a new transport scheme to support secondary school students, replacing the former yellow bus service.
Following a meeting this month between Runnymede and Surrey Councillors and officers, arranged by local MP Dr Ben Spencer, new proposals were brought forward and approved by Runnymede Council on Monday evening. This new service will operate from April 2021. Surrey County Council have committed to operating additional public transport services, funded by grants from central government, until at least January. The end of the former contract and the impact of Covid had led to uncertainty over the future of this service.
I am delighted that the yellow bus service will continue, especially given the pressures of the Covid pandemic. I know that Runnymede Council has worked tirelessly to find a solution, and I am pleased that all parties have been able to work together to ensure this service is retained. - Dr Ben Spencer MP
The new service will not only support families in helping to get children to school safely, but also contribute towards the Council's green agenda and reduce congestion by cutting the number of cars on the roads at peak times.
Cllr Prescot, leader of Runnymede Council, said:
Supporting local people is an absolutely vital part of our work as a local council and when many parents face concerning times because of Coronavirus, I'm pleased we're able to create a new bus service to provide clarity about how children can get to school.
Further information is available here: https://www.runnymede.gov.uk/article/19669/New-Runnymede-school-transport-initiative-confirmed-by-councillors
Surrey County Council has a legal responsibility to provide school transport for pupils who meet its criteria; the new Runnymede buses are an optional service which local borough councillors have chosen to provide.
