Free school bus travel to continue in Croft for 'foreseeable future'

Youngsters are provided with bus passes from Warrington Borough Council for journeys between Croft and Culcheth due to a 'hazardous' footpath connecting the villages.

There were plans to withdraw the pass after the creation of a new path along Wigshaw Lane.

But Cllr Chris Vobe, of Croft Parish Council, successfully argued that the junction of Glaziers Lane would be dangerous for children travelling to school.

He also said the move would increase traffic in Croft and Culcheth at peak times.

Cllr Vobe said: "It has been suggested that people in Croft have to choose between a safe public footpath between the two villages or their free public transport.

"I have said from day one that this did not have to be an 'either or' choice. It has always been my stance that the village should benefit from both.

"We have campaigned for a continuous pavement between the two villages for many years, to provide a safe walking route for the many pedestrians who walk along Wigshaw Lane and Mustard Lane.

"I am delighted to have been able to ensure that negotiations between the council and landowners were concluded, and deliver the investment which allowed this to happen.

"I then took officers from the council on a site visit to demonstrate that the free home to school transport was still vital for children, since the junction of Glaziers Lane is a blind bend.

"We should not expect children to navigate this unaccompanied. The bus pass also contributes to reduced traffic on the roads at peak times."

Warrington Borough Council’s chief executive Steven Broomhead confirmed that the free bus service will continue for the 'foreseeable future' in a letter to Cllr Vobe.

Mr Broomhead said: "Children travelling between Croft and Culcheth via Wigshaw Lane currently benefit from free transport as the route is considered to be hazardous, this arrangement will continue for the foreseeable future."

Warrington Borough Council did not wish to comment further.