Our formal complaint has now been officially submitted and confirmed by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO).

This complaint challenges South Lanarkshire Council’s ongoing failure to properly address the serious safety risks faced by children walking the Sandford–Strathaven school route.

We’ve provided detailed evidence covering:

- The lack of lighting, barriers, and safe crossings on a 60mph rural road;

- The Council’s refusal to carry out a winter or independent reassessment despite repeated requests;

- The inequality in how Sandford has been treated compared to other areas (like Blackwood–Lesmahagow, where transport was reinstated);

- The impact on children’s wellbeing, learning, and family finances; and

- Expert findings, describing the path as unsafe and not fit for purpose.

This has now been formally accepted and logged under case reference 202508744, and we have submitted full supporting documentation.

The Ombudsman will review the handling of this matter by South Lanarkshire Council and determine whether the process and outcome were fair, reasonable, and lawful.

We want to thank every resident, parent, and supporter who has stood behind this campaign.

This isn’t just about Sandford, it’s about accountability, transparency, and ensuring no child is put at risk for the sake of cost-cutting.

We’ll continue to keep everyone updated as the SPSO review progresses.

🔗 Petition: https://www.change.org/SandfordSafety 

#SandfordSafety #SPSO #Accountability #ChildSafety #Transparency #SouthLanarkshireCouncil #SchoolTransport