£800,000 for more school buses to keep county’s students safe
MORE than £800,000 of government money is being used to provide extra school buses across the county.
Parents are being assured the extra buses will ensure youngsters can social distance.
Where students use public services, extra buses are being provided at the beginning and end of the school day so demand can be met while still ensuring enough space for social distancing.
Precautions are also being taken on the services run solely for pupils by the county council and schools.
Students in the Leicester area who buy their own tickets to get to school are being encouraged to buy a flexisaver ticket to give them more options if the bus they would normally get is at full capacity.
Any city student who gets free school travel will receive a flexible ticket for use on all major operators.
The city council is using £284,000 of government cash to pay bus companies to provide the extra services.
Councillor Adam Clarke, deputy mayor responsible for transport, said: “We are working closely with our bus operators to ensure young people can get to school safely and on time. Extra buses will be operating on busy public transport routes. We hope this will provide reassurance for parents and families.”
County Hall has £540,000 of government funding.
Councillor Trevor Pendleton, cabinet member for transport, said: “The funding we’ve been awarded will help busy transport routes meet demand as schools return. We’re pleased to be supporting bus companies and providing parents with reassurance our transport network remains safe.
“We all have a role to play and I’d encourage pupils using bus services to wear a face covering, unless exempt, and continue good hygiene practices.”
Face coverings are also recommended on school services but not legally required. Students are also being asked to sanitise their hands before boarding.
More information on the extra school services is at: choosehowyoummove.co.uk/