We want to update parents and supporters on where things currently stand, and why confidence in South Lanarkshire Council’s handling of this issue is now extremely low.
Firstly, we welcome and thank Brian Whittle MSP and Màiri McAllan MSP for their continued support. A joint letter has now been sent to South Lanarkshire Council raising serious concerns about the safety and suitability of the Sandford–Strathaven Academy walking route, following a site visit with parents. The letter clearly states that “these are no conditions in which to expect children to travel to school”.
Last Wednesday, South Lanarkshire Council accepted a motion, brought by Cllr Elise Frame and seconded by Cllr Katy Loudon, committing the Council to a year-round, preventative approach to maintaining Safe Walking Routes, including winter maintenance.
Yet just days later, on 16 December, the Sandford–Strathaven route was not gritted at all, despite icy conditions along the entire path. The Photo taken that morning shows widespread frost and ice on a route that children are expected to use daily and this was the case for the entirety of the path.
This is poor.
It undermines the credibility of the Council.
And it leaves parents with no confidence that safety commitments made in Council chambers are being upheld in practice.
Because of this failure, details have now been formally sent to South Lanarkshire Council, with MPs, MSPs and local Councillors copied for transparency and accountability.
A Stage 1 complaint has been formally acknowledged by South Lanarkshire Council, with confirmation that a response will be provided within five working days. We will share that response publicly when it is received.
When transport entitlements are removed and children are directed onto a “Safe Walking Route”, the Council has a responsibility to ensure that route is genuinely safe, not just on paper, but on the ground.
This is no longer about words, reassurances or motions being agreed. It is about action.
👉 If you haven’t already, please sign and share the petition:
https://www.change.org/SandfordSafety
We will continue to press this issue until there is clear evidence that:
- the route is being properly maintained,
- winter conditions are being treated seriously, and
- pupil safety is genuinely being prioritised.
Thank you to everyone who continues to support this campaign. Please keep sharing — it genuinely makes a difference.