A local father is expressing his outrage after Surrey County Council decided to cut his children’s free bus passes, forcing them to walk three miles to school instead.

Joe Massey, a father-of-two, was left feeling upset and frustrated after the council’s decision to remove the bus service for his two sons, ages 12 and 15.

He now faces the challenge of finding an alternative route to Carrington School in Redhill, where his children study.

Council Cuts Free Bus Service Amid Financial Constraints

Surrey County Council typically provides free bus passes to students living more than three miles from their school, but citing financial challenges, they are no longer able to offer this service.

Instead, the council has suggested that the Massey family take a walking route, which cuts through muddy fields and an unprotected railway line.

This alternative, according to Mr. Massey, is both impractical and dangerous for his children, especially given the terrain and frequent flooding in the area.

Safety Concerns Raised Over Alternative Route

After trying out the new walking route, Mr. Massey described the path as “unsuitable” and “plain dangerous.”

He pointed out that the route’s conditions, including its proximity to an unguarded railway line and flooded fields, made it unsafe for children to navigate, particularly on a daily basis.

“There is no way in hell you’d send your child on that route,” he stated.

The father feels that the council’s response to his concerns, offering a walk instead of the bus, shows a lack of consideration for his children’s safety and well-being.

Council Justifies Decision Based on Budget Constraints

The council explained that due to financial difficulties, they can no longer afford to fund transport services for families who are within walking distance of the school.

The cost of an annual bus pass for each student is approximately £881, and because Mr. Massey’s children no longer qualify for the service, the council is unable to continue offering it.

Clare Curran, the cabinet member for children, families, and lifelong learning, defended the decision, saying that a safe walking route has been established and that families have the right to appeal if they disagree with the change.

Mr. Massey, however, remains dissatisfied with the council’s approach, feeling that the solution provided does not meet his family’s needs.

He and other parents are now left wondering what options, if any, will be available to ensure that their children can attend school safely without facing such drastic cuts to vital services.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn