Labour have proposed cuts to bus services for the pupils of Bingley Grammar School and to St Bede’s and St Joseph’s Catholic College. In many areas between pupil's homes and their schools the pavements are inadequate for walking on safely.
On 10 December at Full Council, Councillor Paul Sullivan proposed an amendment to a council motion regarding school bus services. Conservative Councillors asked the council to do more regarding assessing the impact the removal of these services would have on families. Labour Councillors voted down the proposed changes but did still agree to look for funding elsewhere.
Councillor Paul Sullivan said;
"We argued that the pitiful small amount of 'savings' by cutting buses would be dwarfed by the cost of danger to children, increased traffic pollution and stress. My grandad was in the first class of St Bede's in 1900. His descendants have been studying at St. Bede's & St Joseph's for well over a 100 years. Labour Councillors defeated our amendment and forced through their motion which just called for 'more consultation'.
The public gallery was full of supporters from St. Bede's and St Joseph's together with Bingley Grammar School. In sharp contrast to the year long disgraceful scenes from Gaza protesters, yesterday the public gallery was respectful and well behaved."
Wilsden resident Rosie Reay, supported by Joanna Grimshaw, and teacher Mr Vasey also spoke eloquently in Council, petitioning to stop the cuts to the service.
Councillor Paul Sullivan also added;
"I exhorted the students and speaking to them directly, in the gallery, said "As part of your 'Democratic studies' I encourage each of you, and your parents to write to your councillors to pressure the executive to Save Our Buses!'
Let your individual councillors know exactly you think!
The format is: [email protected]
Council Leader is: [email protected]
School bus portfolio holder is [email protected]
Feel free to copy Councillor Paul Sullivan into your letters [email protected]