As a result of a major review of routes, a saving of between £2.2m and £3m can be expected over the next three years.

But although this may benefit those living in towns in the country, those living in rural areas may miss out on extracurricular activities if they can only catch one bus to school and one home.

Coun John Riddle, vice chair of the economic prosperity and strategic services overview and scrutiny committee, said: "What does worry me is the implications of the extended schools and the equality that we need to provide, particularly for rural pupils and residents.

"We back that we have to provide this service but if we had to do it for all 16 to 18-year-old's through the day then it's going to be very expensive.

But interim head of transport Chris Williams said rural residents should expect a lesser service to those living in urban areas: "What is a equal opportunities is different for those living in Blyth or Cramlington to those who live on 'deadwater farm' and spend three hours a day on school transport."