A fresh daily bus service is being introduced to simplify college travel for students making the journey to Skipton from East Lancashire.
Craven College has collaborated with transport company Transdev to provide a direct service operating during term time to its Aireville Campus in Skipton.
The initiative is designed to assist the approximately 25 percent of students who travel to the college from East Lancashire.
The route addresses concerns previously expressed by students and parents who identified transportation as an obstacle to education, particularly for those who struggled to enrol on their preferred courses because of restricted travel choices.
Anita Lall, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Craven College, stated that the college was pleased to be introducing this significant bus service, which aligns with the requirements of local communities.
She explained that when students consider their next educational steps, travel arrangements form a crucial component of that planning process, and the hope is that this dedicated service will make the journey to college more straightforward for existing students while simultaneously presenting Craven College as an appealing, accessible and cost-effective choice for prospective applicants.
The vehicle will set off from Nelson at 7.30am, pausing at stops in Colne, Earby and Barnoldswick before reaching the college campus by approximately 8.30am.
The return leg departs from the campus at 4.30pm, following the same route in reverse to provide a direct journey back to the departure points.
Gareth Dixon, Deputy Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Craven College, noted that research had shown students residing to the west of Skipton faced considerable difficulties with transportation to the college.
This situation meant many were unable to pursue their preferred courses and struggled to fulfil their potential in their selected fields.
Through engagement with Transdev, a suitable route was identified that would reach as many existing and potential students as possible along the corridor between Nelson and Skipton, thereby granting them access to the learning opportunities available at Craven College.
Fare options begin at £3 for a single trip, with payment collected on the vehicle.
Termly travel passes can also be obtained from Aireville Campus.
Maria Jones, Head of Admissions at Craven College, indicated that discussions with applicants and their families had highlighted that transportation might present a challenge for students travelling in from East Lancashire.
She added that this new route would render Craven College an even more practical option for those seeking to access the opportunities available at the institution, and that collaborating with Transdev to deliver this service had been a positive experience.
The inaugural departure will take place from Nelson Bus Station at 7.30am on Monday 7 September.
David Wallington, Head of Commercial at Transdev, confirmed that with a dependable and affordable transportation solution now established, the company anticipated welcoming Craven College students on board from 7 September.