Contact: Andy Wren, ext 7500 email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the Sustainable Modes of Travel strategy, as set out in the appendix, be approved for initial publication by 31 August 2007 in line with the Government's prescribed programme with the expectation that it will be reviewed and further developed in due course.

2. Reason

2.1 The report sets out a number of new requirements and statutory duties under the Education and Inspections Act 2006 (EIA 2006) for Local Education and Transport Authorities. These relate to arrangements for transporting children to and from school or college and the promotion of sustainable transport options to pupils and parents.

2.2 The County Council anticipates that its strategy will develop and evolve in respect of sustainable modes of travel to school and college in the short and medium term, and it will therefore keep the strategy under review and development during this period. It is expected that consultation will be part of this process.

2.3 By implementing the proposed strategy and action plan the County Council will deliver its duties relating to school travel and the provision of school travel arrangements for children and young people, as required by the Education and Inspections Act 2006, whilst maximising well-being and enhancing our quality of place.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 The EIA 2006 is a new statutory requirement.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member Consulted - None.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - None.

6. Reason for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - to comply with the Education (School Information) (England) Regulations 2002, as amended. This follows the approval of detailed regulations earlier this year and the belated publication of detailed guidance by the Government.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor M J Kendal

Executive Member for Environment

1438Decn/ACW