A CONSULTATION on 'discretionary home to school transport' in Conwy has launched.

Conwy’s Education Service is asking people for their opinions on non-statutory arrangements, including: transport to denominational schools; Gypsy Roma Traveller children school transport within the statutory distance; course continuation following a change of address; dual residency; and post 16 transport.

Statutory home to school transport is not part of the review and will remain unchanged.

Cllr Julie Fallon, Cabinet Member for Education said, “School transport is generally considered to be one of the fastest growing costs in local authorities’ annual budgets. As such, it’s important that we review the service we provide.”

“I’d urge learners, parents, governors and other interested parties to get involved and let us know your views.”

The local authority said in the last year, school transport costs have risen from £5.8 million to £6.5 million. It is understood costs have increased due to a number of reasons including a rise in fuel, servicing, repairs, vehicle and driver shortages, just to name a few.

Welsh local authorities must assess the travel needs of learners in their authority area; Provide free home to school transport for learners of compulsory school age (five to 16 years old) attending primary school who live two miles or further from their nearest suitable school; Provide free home to school transport for learners of compulsory school age (five to 16 years old attending secondary school who live three miles or further from their nearest suitable school; Assess and meet the needs of children “looked after” in their authority area and promote sustainable modes of travel.

A spokesperson from Conwy County Borough Council said: "We’re not looking at the transport we have to give. We’re focusing on the school transport we choose to give.

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"It’s important because we need to make sure we’re using money in the best way."

The information and survey is available at: www.conwy.gov.uk/schooltransportconsultation

Anyone who is not online can obtain a paper copy of the survey from the reception at Coed Pella or telephone 01492 575595.

The consultation runs for seven weeks. Views should be submitted by March 21.

The results of the review and consultation will be presented to councillors at a later date for consideration.