We have just received official confirmation from the Scottish Information Commissioner (SIC) that our appeal against South Lanarkshire Council has been validated and will now move into full investigation.

This relates to the Council’s refusal to release key evidence used to deem the Sandford–Strathaven school route “safe”, including:

- Route safety assessments
- Meeting minutes
- Risk evaluations
- Internal correspondence relating to the  decision
- Any comparative data on other walking routes

The SIC has confirmed:

📌 Our application is valid
📌 The investigation will proceed
📌 The Council will now be required to submit all withheld information for independent scrutiny

This is a major step forward for transparency and accountability.

For months, we have been repeatedly told by South Lanarkshire Council:

- That the matter is “concluded”
- That no further assessment will be undertaken
- That winter conditions “will not be considered”
- That children must continue to walk the 60mph unlit route with no barriers
- That the community’s concerns, evidence, and lived experiences do not change their position

The SIC investigation ensures the Council must now justify this decision with evidence, not assumptions and not dismissive statements.

We will fully cooperate with the Commissioner and provide:

- Community survey data
- Engineering reports
- FOI correspondence
- Hazard footage and images
- Statements from residents
- MSP & Councillor involvement and testimony

This is not just progress for Sandford, it is a vital accountability moment for South Lanarkshire Council’s wider transport and safety policy.

📣 Next steps

We will:

- Await appointment of the Investigating Officer
- Share any further information publicly where permitted
- Continue to press the Council on winter safety, maintenance, and duty of care
- Keep all residents updated at every stage

🙏 Thank you

To every parent, resident, councillor, MSP, journalist and supporter, this momentum is because of YOU.

We are being heard.

We are making progress.

And we will continue until Sandford’s children are protected and safe.