Free school bus for Conwy pupils reinstated on interim basis

In July, Conwy County Borough Council confirmed it would be withdrawing the service, but since then, efforts have been made to urge the local authority to reconsider.

It was put to the council that the route between Llysfaen and Ysgol Bryn Elian is not straight forward and poses hazards, particularly in inclement weather given the topography of the route, and lack of a pedestrian crossing on Llanelian Road.

Earlier this month, a public meeting, chaired by Clwyd West MS Darren Millar, was held, at which parents and other members of the community raised their objections to the proposals.

This week, Mr Millar was informed that the council will reinstate the bus service on an interim basis.

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He said: “Whilst this is very positive news and means that when children return to school next week they will be able to continue accessing this free service, the potential risk of this provision being withdrawn in the long-term remains and I will therefore continue with the campaign.

“This is a vital service to children living in Llysfaen and I will be doing everything in my power to ensure it is safeguarded.”

Phil Capper, chair of governors at Ysgol Bryn Elian, added: "This news will come as a huge relief to pupils and parents but the fight is far from over.

"The governing body will continue to engage with Darren Millar and Michael Imperato (legal expert, Watkins & Gunn) to ensure that permanent school bus services continue to be available for learners from Llysfaen."

A spokesperson for the council’s education service said: “We have received a letter challenging the council’s decision to cease transport for pupils from Llysfaen to Ysgol Bryn Elian.

“On an interim basis, whilst we consider the matters raised in the letter, we intend to reinstate the bus service. 

“We will contact parents and guardians in due course following reconsideration of the decision to remove the transport.”