U.K: EVALUATION OF FIRST YELLOW BUS PILOT SCHEMES

Institute of Transportation Engineers. ITE Journal, Jan 2004

The U.K. DfT has released a report on efforts to reduce dependency on cars for delivering children to school. The report assessed the impact of Yellow School Bus pilots and other school travel schemes around the country. Key findings from the report include the following:

* Primary and secondary students value the convenience of a school bus system;

* Parents like the safety, security and familiarity of dedicated drivers;

* Pick-up and drop-off points close to home and school were highly rated by parents and students; and

* Dedicated bus services sometimes can discourage children from walking and cycling.

In September 2003, the government unveiled "Travelling to School: An Action Plan," to promote walking, cycling and bus travel to school and to tackle congestion near school routes. The two-year, £50-million plan is an effort to help schools promote safe and healthy travel to school. To access the report, go to www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_localtrans/documents/page/dft_localtrans_025492.pdf