More 20mph zones to be installed outside schools

Pictured at Thurcroft Junior Academy are (back, from left): Cllr Amy Brookes, Cllr Emma Hoddinott and head teacher Richard Porter with pupils Alfie Bailey, Ethan Hicks, Libby Green, Will Pickford, Ruby Heeley-Walters and Oliver Ford

Anston Brook Primary, Aston Academy, Aston Fence Junior and Infant, Kiveton Park Infant and Laughton Junior and Infant are among those to benefit.

Also on the list for new signage in the next few weeks are Maltby Crags, St Mary’s in Maltby, St Alban’s in Wickersley, Swallownest Primary and Wales Primary.

Cllr Emma Hoddinott, Cabinet member for roads and community safety, said: “We are rolling out these signs to raise motorists’ awareness when they are passing schools and encourage them to reduce their speed.

“If someone is hit by a car at 30mph they are 50 per cent more likely to be killed, compared to ten per cent at 20 mph.”

The lowered speed limit applies when new warning signs on the roads outside the schools are flashing.

Schemes had already been introduced at Brinsworth Academy, Ravenfield Primary Academy, Sandhill Academy in Rawmarsh, Thurcroft Junior Academy and Wickersley Northfield Primary.

Thrybergh Primary will also have a 20mph zone after head teacher Rachel Harrison asked the Cabinet in May to reinstate the school’s crossing patrol — axed during budget cuts — because of road safety fears.

Cllr Hoddinott said: “We have reviewed their eligibility for a 20mph zone. They are eligible and we have put them in this year’s programme.

“I hope that will go some way in terms of addressing their concerns over road safety at the school.”

Cllr Amy Brookes, Rother Vale ward, praised the addition of a zone at Thurcroft. She said: “I’m glad to have these new advisory signs on Green Arbour Road to help remind motorists to drive safely and with common courtesy for children and residents walking to school.”