HUNDREDS of youngsters could lose free bus travel to and from school.

Durham County Council is considering charging the parents of about 480 children who fill surplus places on free school transport.

A proposed £1 daily charge for pupils up to 16 would cost parents about £190 a year.

If all the surplus seats are filled it could give the council more than £90,000 a year in extra income.

Charging pupils who would not ordinarily get free travel was recommended in an external review of the council's transport policy under the Government's "best value'' regime.

The move would not affect 20,000 pupils eligible for free transport or those who use the service because their walk to school is deemed hazardous.

The Labour-run council is reviewing 17 routes across the county to see if that concession should continue. The council's cabinet has agreed to consultation before a final decision is taken.

Councillors were told that Durham was out of step with other authorities in not charging for concessionary seats.

Education director Keith Mitchell said: "In recent years, more and more local education authorities have been making a charge for concessionary travel as pressure on their education transport budget has increased."

Concessionary seats are offered at the council's discretion but can be withdrawn if places are required by pupils who meet the free travel eligibility criteria or if a smaller vehicle can be introduced.

Mr Mitchell said students in post-16 education would have to pay £1.50 per day, or about £285 a year for concessionary travel. The charges will be introduced in September next year if final approval is given.