As parents residing in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire we are deeply concerned about the safety of our children. Our children need to be transported safely to and from school.

 Not all families have the luxury of owning cars or affording taxis, and not all parents are available to accompany their children on the walk to school.

The current routes were previously deemed unsuitable for children to walk alone and guess what? They have remained unchanged, prompting real concern over how they are now -magically -threat free! 
It is absolutely certain that children will cut across the dual carriageway and that a fatality will occur. It’s not rocket science to realise that children will risk the shortcuts rather than walking through derelict underpaths. Pupils carry heavy bags with many textbooks and doing so while walking over 3 miles to and fro is, quite obviously, not acceptable.

Our children are at risk if they must walk these routes. From Blackwood/Smithstone to GHS the walking route is  almost 3 miles/ over 3 miles from the end of the estate/ to school - a strenuous task in the summer months but even more dangerous during dark winter mornings.

Pupils will need to leave when it’s pitch black and will be returning in the same conditions. We all know the council is not proactive in gritting side roads; so once again an injury is certain. 

Children who live as far away as Dullatur  are expected to walk to Cumbernauld Academy. It is mind boggling that NLC voted for this.  It is sinister that they did so without parental consultation.

Children from other areas will also be adversely affected and we must let NLC know this is unacceptable. Young Scot cards do not ensure that there are actual buses available on the current school routes. 

It is unsafe, unfair and unjustifiable! 

According to Road Safety GB, child pedestrians account for a significant proportion of casualties among road users in Scotland (Road Safety GB). It's clear that this decision WILL put our young ones at greater risk.

We urge North Lanarkshire Council to not only consider the financial implications but also prioritize our children's safety above all else. We demand that free bus provision be maintained for all current routes without exception. Sign this petition today and help us ensure safe transportation for our kids!

Thank you.