Bus confusion over new school times

SADDLEWORTH School is at the centre of a row over teaching arrangements and transport.

After consultation with parents, the school decided to allow pupils an early finish on Wednesdays so teachers could attend training sessions.

But Transport for Greater Manchester says it can’t afford to pay for the shift in bus demand.

TfGM’s Howard Hartley said: “The early finish on Wednesday increases costs beyond TfGM’s available budget. We have informed schools of the need to involve TfGM at the earliest stage regarding changes in hours. There is no funding available for additional services.”

But Brian Lord, chair of Saddleworth School governors for 14 years, refuted the claim: “The school informed TfGM about changes in February. During those six months, school representatives worked hard to negotiate service that worked for all parties.

“All morning services are unaffected, but on Wednesday afternoon children leave school and have to wait in large numbers for buses on the high street in Uppermill.

“We aren’t now asking for additional buses and have asked for buses to pull into the turn area, where we would ensure the public was allowed to board first.

“But TfGM have said this isn’t possible, which beggars belief.”