By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
The Isle of Wight Council has spent nearly £4½ million on taxi transport for schoolchildren over the past two financial years, with costs rising sharply from £939,438 in 2019/20 to £2.4 million in 2024/25. The figures, revealed through a Freedom of Information Act request, reflect growing demand for specialist travel arrangements – particularly for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The council is legally required to provide suitable transport for eligible pupils, and says taxis are only used when necessary. Many children cannot use standard buses due to mobility, sensory, or behavioural needs, and some require travel to specialist schools not available locally.
County Hall acknowledged public concern over the rising costs, but described the service as a “lifeline” for families. A spokesman said the increase mirrors national pressures and reflects the challenge of meeting statutory duties amid existing SEND demand.
To reduce reliance on taxis, the council says it is expanding local SEND provision. New resourced units have opened at The Bay CE and Brighstone Primary, with further expansions at Medina House, Lionheart, and other Island schools planned.
The council says it remains committed to promoting sustainable travel and improving access to education close to home. Conservative group leader, Cllr Ed Blake, said: “This is a very large number and figures like this can be difficult for residents to digest. I have no doubt that every taxi journey was needed and procured at a competitive rate, but it highlights the lack of provision for young people within proximity to them.” He also pointed out that some journeys will be off-Island.
However, his colleague, Cllr Paul Brading, chairman of the Education Committee, has confirmed that additional primary schools need to close.
Isle of Wight Observer