CONTROVERSIAL plans to axe free school transport in the city have been backed by councillors.
Hull City Council is looking into stopping all non-compulsory free transport to save costs and the proposals will be put before cabinet on Monday.
Schools and parents have said the move would damage education and put children's safety at risk.
But councillors at two scrutiny committees admit the current arrangement is unsustainable.
At a meeting this week, the Children, Young People and Families Overview and Scrutiny Commission backed proposals to stop non- statutory free transport.
The commission has recommended the new policy of no free transport should be introduced in 2014-15 and should not be phased in.
Chairman Councillor Mary Glew said: "It's an old policy we have and it's 17 years since we reviewed it.
"There have been lots of changes and the education landscape has changed dramatically.
"We also have to take into account the economic climate and the cuts made but we are still protecting the most vulnerable."
Cllr Glew feels schools can learn from some of the city's colleges.
She said: "Wilberforce College has an agreement with the bus companies to subsidise travel to bring in pupils from all over the East Riding.
"They even have mapping software to create a dedicated route for the pupils."
Yesterday, the Environment and Transport Overview and Scrutiny Commission also met. Despite broadly backing the new policy, they identified concerns about its implementation.
Councillor Claire Thomas, who is on the commission, said: "We raised some concerns about the logistics.
"I raised issues about primary school children in particular.
"It is okay for a secondary school pupil to use a commercial bus but a primary school pupil would need a carer with them.
"We also discussed the interchange. More children will have to use it and we suggest a member of staff is there to help the pupils navigate the terminal."
The changes could see almost 1,000 children lose their free ride to school under the cost-cutting plans.
Heads across the city have urged parents to make their feelings known to the council and air their concerns.
Faith and single-sex schools will be hit particularly hard with Newland School for Girls and St Mary's College being vocal in their opposition.
Both have handed in petitions against the proposals.
