Oxfordshire County Council has announced that they will stop providing a bus service from Childrey to King Alfred’s School in Wantage starting from the summer term. Instead, the council has designated a bridleway for pupils to walk to school, which they claim complies with national guidelines for a safe walking route. However, parents have voiced concerns about the safety and practicality of the route, describing it as a “pothole-ridden dirt track.” One parent estimated that the walk could take as long as 45 minutes.
Sarah Chambers, a concerned parent whose three children have all attended the school, has raised serious safety concerns. She highlighted that the designated route has no drainage, is unlit, and is riddled with potholes. Additionally, the path runs along a busy road used by farm vehicles. Ms. Chambers fears that children walking the route would arrive at school muddy and wet, especially during rainy seasons, making the bridleway unsuitable.
Similarly, Michael Hadley expressed concerns about the safety of his daughters on the new route. He noted that the path crosses remote fields and requires children to walk on a bridleway before crossing an unlit and traffic-heavy single-track road. Mr. Hadley stated that he would not allow his 14-year-old daughter to take the route and is particularly worried for his younger 10-year-old when she begins attending the school.
The council responded by explaining that the distance from Childrey to King Alfred’s School is under the statutory three miles required for the provision of school transport. A council spokesperson mentioned that the previously available bus service was always subject to review. Following an inspection of the bridleway, the council concluded that it meets national safety standards for walking routes to school. As a result, starting in the summer term, children from Childrey will need to walk the route or pay to continue using the bus service they previously accessed for free.
Despite the council’s reassurances, parents remain unconvinced and continue to worry that the decision prioritizes cost-saving over the safety of their children. In response, some parents have unified to create a “walking bus,” where carers from the village will accompany children along the bridleway to ensure their safety. This initiative has been welcomed by families who are reluctant to let their children navigate the route alone.
In light of these concerns, the council has agreed to re-evaluate the route before the summer term begins. They have also committed to regular maintenance of the bridleway to address ongoing concerns. Parents are hopeful that through collaboration and continued discussions, a safer solution can be reached that fully protects the children’s well-being.
If you are interested in local school resources or want to learn about community groups addressing similar challenges, consider exploring the Wantage business directory, which includes categories like Schools and Colleges and Support Groups and Services.
Parents or community members wishing to support this effort or organize similar community initiatives can also submit an event or group listing here.
