Fears raised about school bus transport in Inverclyde ahead of the proposed return to class next month

A senior local councillor has cast doubt on whether the plan is practical or affordable.

Cllr David Wilson says that implementing the social distancing rules on school transport could cost as much as £6 million.

Mr Wilson, who is on the board of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, says that the government have agreed with SPT that social distancing should be reduced to one metre instead of two when schools return in August.

But he says this still has implications for capacity - and would come at a big cost to the council.

He said: "Transport Scotland have listened to SPT and the social distancing is now one metre.

"But at one metre capacity is 30-40 per cent.

"This costs £2.4m per annum and at a very worst case could rise to six million.

"Logistical, safety and cost concerns are significant.

"This figure is unaffordable for our council.

"It will require the expertise of SPT, the advisers to the council, to negotiate skilfully with all interested parties."

Mr Wilson believes local education bosses may have to go back to the drawing board to find a plan that works.

He said: "Inverclyde's education bosses must, in the light of the impending situation, present alternatives to councillors in order to mitigate potential costs."

The Scottish Government says it is aware of the challenges for school transport for a full return of pupils in August.

It says it is continuing to work with its partners to address them.

A government spokesperson added: "Updated guidance for return to school, which will include school transport, is currently being developed, based on the latest scientific advice as to what physical distancing or other measures are required to protect pupils, drivers and other passengers.”