Schools bus cash boost to help pupils get back to school in September

With some pupils returning to the classroom for the first time since lockdown began, the £40m cash boost from the government is aimed at ensuring there is enough capacity to allow students to follow social distancing rules.

The money will be given to local councils in time for the new school year but it is not clear how much they will each receive.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “While our public transport system has almost returned to full service, I know thousands of people will choose to get active and find alternative modes of transport, because with distancing measures still in place it is important that we all play our part to ensure everyone is able to get to school safely, and on time.

“For those that have no other option than public transport, this investment for local authorities will mean more students will be able to travel on dedicated home to school and college transport, creating even more capacity where it is needed most.”

Local transport authorities will be allocated the funding to reflect the number of children and young people in the local area and how far they have to travel.

The Department for Transport has also announced further funding for the bus and light rail sectors to help increase services ahead of expected increase in public transport use in September.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “We need everyone to do their bit and help even further by cycling or walking where they can, whether they’re a student going back to school or a parent commuting into work.

"We’re making sure people have the support they need to do that, with £2 billion of investment backing our ambitious new Cycling and Walking plan unveiled by the Prime Minister last week.”

Local authorities will be provided with new detailed guidance next week which has been developed with the sector and Public Health England, which sets out details they need to plan for transport arrangements in September.