Walking Bus Scheme Launched
15 June, 2007
YOUNGSTERS at Stapleford’s William Lilley Infant School have taken walking to school in their stride following the launch of their walking bus initiative. Led by an adult ‘driver’ at the front and ‘conductor’ at the rear, up to 16 children are now be able to walk to school safely every day, giving them fresh air and exercise while reducing the amount of traffic on the road.
It is estimated that the average ‘school run’ journey emits enough carbon dioxide – believed to be one of the main causes of global warming – to fill 60 inflatable balloons.
The children walk to school in a group along a set route picking up additional 'passengers' at specific 'bus-stops' along the way. Every person taking place has to wear a reflective road safety tabard to increase visibility.
The walking bus gives children the chance to improve their road sense and gain some independence and responsibility.
Nottinghamshire County Council’s School Travel Plan team has worked with the school to introduce the initiative, which has been successfully carried by a number of other schools in the county.
Natasha Mellors, of Nottinghamshire County Council’s School Travel Plan team, said: “The walking bus is a great way for children to travel to school as they walk in a group instead of being driven individually.
“Not only will it give children the chance to develop their road skills, walking in numbers will also be a safer way to travel.”
By CM.
