West Yorkshire launches consultation on school bus services

West Yorkshire's Combined Authority (WYCA) has launched a public consultation inviting parents and carers to help shape a new sustainable school travel strategy, aiming to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable transport for secondary students. Currently, support for school buses varies across the region, with about 328 buses serving 20,000 pupils daily, and costs rising annually. Recent years have seen significant changes, including the impact of Covid-19 and the decision to implement bus franchising, with the first services under the new model expected by March 2027. The consultation, open until June 11, follows previous controversies over proposed service cuts, such as Bradford Council's attempt to end specific routes, which was reversed after public outcry. The initiative seeks to place families at the center of future transport decisions by understanding barriers and preferences in school travel. Residents are encouraged to participate before the deadline to influence strategies that may take effect in September 2026.