Unsafe walking routes

'Unsafe walking routes' applications can take several months to complete due to the surveys involved. Parent/carers are responsible for making their own transport arrangements whilst the Authority are considering the application.

Local authorities have a statutory duty under the Education Act 1996 to provide home to school transport for eligible children (as defined by Section 508B of the act). The act specifies that one of the categories of eligible children for whom transport must be provided, is defined as 'children who cannot reasonably be expected to walk to their nearest suitable school because the nature of the route is deemed unsafe to walk' (Department for Education Statutory Guidance 2014). The 'Unsafe Walking Routes Assessment Policy' document only relates to this part of the act.

This policy applies to children who live within the statutory walking distance to their catchment or nearest suitable school. Shropshire Council may give help with travel if the route has been assessed as 'unsafe' and there is no other alternative route below the walking distance. This policy has been written in line with the Department for Education Statutory Guidance 2014 and the Road Safety GB Assessment of Walked Routes to School guidelines 2021.

How to apply

Please read the 'Unsafe Walking Routes Assessment Policy' before applying. An application form can be found on this page under ‘Related documents’.