A COUNCIL has decided to extend consultation over plans to scrap free concessionary school bus travel in Darlington.

Darlington Borough Council has taken the decision after widespread concern among parents who want their children to attend a Catholic comprehensive school.

Under the proposals, pupils who live less than three miles from their school will have to pay £50 a term for a travel pass.

The majority of people will be unaffected, because there are a number of comprehensive schools around the town, giving parents a choice.

But because there is only one Catholic comprehensive school, Carmel RC College of Technology, parents seeking a Catholic education for their children have no option but to pay for a bus pass.

This has angered many residents, who believe they are being discriminated against.

Although Darlington council has consulted parents about the issue, through sending notes home with pupils, it has now decided to write to all parents directly, to seek their views, before a decision is made.

Council leader John Williams said the consultation period will be extended to the end of September.

"Even after that, we will have the matter considered by scrutiny committee, and there will be further opportunity for people to make their views known," he said.

"The process will ensure that all parents are allowed enough time to consider the proposals, and their views will be taken into consideration prior to a decision being taken."

Caroline Pattison, who intends to send her three children to Carmel school, is one of the parents who would have to pay because she lives 2.64 miles away from the school.

She said: "It is good news that the consultation will be extended, but we will continue to fight for the right to be able to send our children to a Catholic school."