The usual response to reducing traffic congestion associated with journeys to and from school is to encourage children to walk or cycle. However, a report by the Automobile Association suggests that improved public transport services may prove more effective; this article reviews the report. It has also indicated areas which could realistically reduce such congestion. Speaking at the report's launch, P Jones of the Transport Studies Group, University of Westminster, said that about 30% of those aged under 11 and 20% of those aged 11-16 in the UK were driven to and from school, but that only 8% of car mileage in the peak period was due to these trips. 40% of the parents go on to another destination such as work, after the school run. The report was compiled using data from the National Travel Survey, an in-depth household survey, and a national public attitude survey. Most parents who drive their children to school do so out of concern for their children's safety, and over a half could be persuaded to using public transport if available for their children. First Group operates 10,000 buses, carrying 600,000 children to and from US schools, and would like to offer its services in the UK. Stagecoach would also like to make bus travel attractive to children. Surrey and Devon County Councils are both seeking bus solutions.
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