A SCHOOL’S campaign to tackle the danger of parkers around its entrance includes installing special road safety signs designed by pupils.
Beecroft Lower School headteacher Rebecca Baker was determined to do something about the long-standing frustrations the school has had with parents parking on pavements in Westfield Road, Dunstable, when dropping off and picking up their children.
As well as obstructing access which could have serious consequences should there be an emergency, small children could be hit by drivers unable to see them on the pavement.
But now, thanks to Beecroft pupils, metal signs have been attached to school walls to remind motorists to be considerate.
Mrs Baker said: “Parking has always been an issue. It has got worse as more and more people have cars.
“We have always been proactive. We’ve been out and spoken to parents and sent letters home, but we didn’t seem to be getting anywhere.
“We decided we needed a new injection so we suggested the posters at the parents’ forum.
“The feedback was very positive. Parents have said it’s so much safer, it’s incredible.”
Mrs Baker and deputy headteacher Rob Hutchings have also been vigilant in preventing problem parkers by patrolling the area when parents pick up and drop off their children.
Councillor Peter Hollick, chairman of Central Beds Council, attended as the pupils displayed their poster designs.
He told the Gazette: “Irresponsible parking can cause danger on the roads, not least of all to the young children. The school has done a considerable amount to encourage safe parking and we can only ask parents here and elsewhere to park responsibly.”
To encourage less traffic congestion at peak times the school has also installed almost 70 bicycle and scooter racks on school grounds.
Mr Hutchings said: “Lots of children have used them already despite it still being winter. They’ve had a really positive impact.”