Faith transport plans considered

Plans which could see the end of free transport for children going to faith schools in Hertfordshire are due to be considered by councillors.

The proposals could save the county council £2.9m over eight years.

Of those who responded to a council questionnaire, 2,376 were in favour and 3,976 against ending free transport.

The full council will consider the plans on 18 July and a final decision is likely to be made at Hertfordshire's cabinet committee on 24 July.

At present pupils are provided with free home to school transport if they have a space in a faith school and live more than the statutory walking distance away from the school.

Pupils in Hertfordshire are also allowed free transport if the nearest suitable school for them is more than the statutory walking distance from their home.

The leaders of the Roman Catholic, Anglican and Jewish communities have objected to any plans to withdraw free school transport.