Partnership focus on school transport safety

Pembrokeshire County Council licensing officers were out with officers from the LA’s Integrated Transport Unit again this week checking vehicle safety.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Enforcement officers joined the joint operation to spot check licensed taxis and buses after dropping off learners at Pembrokeshire College.

The checks resulted in five vehicles licences being suspended for not meeting licence standards.

All larger passenger carrying vehicles (PVC), including buses and coaches, all passed the inspections carried out by the DVSA with no reported faults.

This follows a similar operation in late January at Portfield School where Dyfed-Powys Police assisted in school transport checks.

On that morning 26 vehicles were checked, four of which were suspended for licence breaches.

When a vehicle is suspended, all faults must be rectified before suspension is lifted, and in many cases, this is done on the same day, ensuring there is no disruption to the learners.

If a passenger attendant is found to be travelling without the necessary badge sanctions will be taken against the individual companies concerned.

Cabinet Member for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services Cllr Michelle Bateman said: “Ensuring all our learners are transported safely is of utmost importance and this partnership work is just one aspect of that.

“I am pleased that our licensing officers, along with those from the DVSA and Police will be continuing these spot checks on a regular basis and providing assurance to parents that their children are protected.”

If you have any concerns or complaints about school taxi transport in Pembrokeshire contact licensing@pembrokeshire.gov.uk

13 Mar 2024