Changes to post-16 school and college transport in Merthyr Tydfil are being considered, with potential savings of over £40,000 for the council. A report presented to the full council on Wednesday, October 2, proposes adjustments to the service, suggesting free post-16 transport be restricted to specific institutions. These include The College, Merthyr Tydfil, Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun for Welsh-medium education post-16, and St John Baptist Church in Wales High School for statutory education attendees. This change would cease transport to Coleg Y Cymoedd in Ystrad Mynach or Aberdare and Bridgend College in Pencoed.
The consultation revealed that this proposal was the second most favoured, with 39% support, leading to projected savings of £42,000. The more popular choice among the public, at 52%, was to retain the existing service. The current provision exceeds statutory requirements, as there is no obligation to offer free transport to post-16 learners pursuing mainstream further education. The proposed modifications aim to enhance efficiency and sustainability in post-16 transport services.
Currently, the council provides transport to schools and colleges, including The College, Merthyr Tydfil, Coleg Y Cymoedd (Ystrad Mynach and Aberdare), and Bridgend College (Pencoed). Learners attending out-of-county Welsh-medium or faith schools receive transport to specific institutions. Transport is provided through dedicated vehicles or public transport passes. In the 2023-24 academic year, 177 post-16 students benefited from the current transport policy.
Issues raised during the consultation highlighted concerns about the impact on education, barriers to learning, health and well-being, environmental effects, and access to courses outside Merthyr. Pending approval, changes will be effective from September 2025, affecting new course starters from that point onwards. Existing students will retain free transport for the duration of their courses. Financial savings from the revised transport system will be phased, with estimated savings of £24,637 in 2026-27 and £42,235 in 2027-28.
These proposed changes seek to align post-16 transport services with statutory requirements while optimizing financial resources. The council’s efforts to streamline service delivery reflect a commitment to sustainable and efficient public transport operations.