Overcrowding on school buses has become a pressing concern in rural Gloucestershire, sparking a heated debate during a recent County Council meeting held on January 15. Councillor Wendy Thomas highlighted the severity of the issue, describing it as a "huge issue" affecting several areas, with children left waiting on verges due to insufficient bus space. In contrast, Councillor Brian Tipper argued that parents should consider transport logistics before relocating to rural areas, insisting that ensuring school transport for every child is not the council's responsibility.
The discussion gained momentum when Councillor Tipper expressed his views on rural living and transportation challenges. He emphasized the importance of residing along a bus route if commuting to work or school is essential.
"People who need to get to work or school, they should live on a bus route," said Councillor Brian Tipper.
His remarks found support from Councillor Sajid Patel, who echoed the sentiment that parents must factor in transportation when choosing schools for their children.
"When you make that choice one of the things you have to consider is the transport arrangements," commented Councillor Sajid Patel.
The overcrowding issue was notably impacting rural villages like Nympsfield, where children are often left on the side of verges. Councillor Gill Moseley voiced concerns that farming communities might face difficult decisions, potentially giving up jobs to live near bus routes.
"Farmers don't really have the choice to go to a particular location," noted Councillor Gill Moseley.
Councillor Thomas revealed that she has been receiving significant feedback from her constituents regarding overcrowded services in her division.
"In my division, I'm getting a lot of blowback about overcrowded services," she stated.
Philip Williams, the council’s traffic and transport assistant director, underscored the need to address the problem at its roots, suggesting an upstream approach to finding solutions. Despite Councillor Tipper's acknowledgment of limited living choices for some, he remained firm in his belief that relocating should be reconsidered if transportation needs cannot be met.
"I'm sorry to sound dictatorial about it but it's common sense. If you can't get to work because you are living in a certain area you shouldn't have moved there in the first place," said Councillor Tipper.
Councillor Patel reinforced Tipper's stance, emphasizing parental responsibility in school and transport decisions.
