Plans to introduce travel charges for students aged 16 and over in Oxfordshire have been shelved, following strong public opposition and a dramatic rise in school transport costs.
Oxfordshire County Council had considered implementing the new fees as part of efforts to manage its growing home-to-school transport budget, which is projected to hit £43 million in the next financial year—up from just over £26 million in 2022/23.
However, following a public consultation, where 60% of respondents rejected the idea, the council has officially announced it will not move forward with the charges.
SEND Transport at the Core of Rising Costs
A significant share of the projected budget—around £33 million—is allocated for transporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Under current policies, eligible SEND pupils receive free transport to the nearest suitable school. For many, this includes specially arranged services such as taxis or adapted vehicles due to their individual needs.
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A recent council report attributed the soaring costs to a rise in passenger numbers, especially among those requiring specialist transport. The growing complexity of delivering personalised travel solutions for SEND students continues to put pressure on the council’s resources.
Cost Concerns and Community Input
Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, highlighted the sheer scale of the spending, noting it now exceeds the entire annual budget of Cherwell District Council. “It is absolutely colossal,” he said, emphasizing the importance of closely managing every aspect of the service.
During the consultation period, the council sought views on whether it should begin charging students over 16 for using council-run school transport. Although some local authorities do impose such charges, Oxfordshire officials ultimately sided with those concerned about the financial strain it could place on families.
Council officers formally advised against implementing the fees, acknowledging the “potential impact” on young people continuing their education. The cabinet approved that recommendation during a meeting on Tuesday.
Council Emphasizes Responsiveness
Cllr Gaul underscored the council’s willingness to take public opinion seriously. “This administration is often accused of not listening,” he said. “But with 60% of people against the proposal, we’ve taken that on board.”
Despite the financial pressures, the council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting access to education—particularly for the county’s most vulnerable students—without imposing additional costs on families.
