In North Yorkshire, concerns have arisen regarding suggested walking routes for schoolchildren that include crossing an active military firing range. Tom Gordon, the MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, criticized the North Yorkshire council for proposing these unsafe routes during a discussion on home-to-school transport. According to Gordon, the council's recommendations include climbing over metal barriers on the A64 and traversing paths through Catterick military barracks. The School Transport Action Group (STAG) reported that families are being denied transport based on routes that require children to trespass on private land and navigate dangerous areas. Jo Foster from STAG emphasized the risks involved, while North Yorkshire Council's assistant director for children's partnerships, Jo Heaney, noted the rising costs of transport services, which exceed £52 million annually. The government is responding by investing in new free schools and additional funding for special education needs (SEND) placements, aiming to reduce travel distances and costs for families.