Safety concerns prompt primary school’s travel consultation

A local primary has launched a consultation to create a new travel plan following safety concerns for children and parents.

Shaw CE Primary School is consulting staff, governors, parents and residents of Shaw and Whitley after mounting concerns about the speed and volume of traffic on roads by the school.

Headteacher Amy Edwards said, “These dangers were highlighted recently when a car overturned on Corsham Road at about 4pm one afternoon.”

Following the consultation, the school is aiming to create a new travel plan and is calling for Wiltshire Council to reduce the current speed limit from George Ward Gardens to Shaw Church to 30mph and to impose a 20mph limit on Shaw Hill and Corsham Road.

This follows concerns from the school that more vehicles than ever are travelling faster on Corsham Road, Bath Road and Shaw Hill.

Amy said, “The safety of our children is always our highest priority. We are currently working closely with community partners to explore reducing the speed limit outside the school. With so many children and families walking, scooting and cycling to school each day, calmer traffic and lower speeds will help create a safer environment for everyone. We believe that even small changes can make a big difference in protecting our pupils and giving parents greater peace of mind.”

To further understand people’s views, a public meeting will be hosted at Shaw CE Primary School on 30th April at 7pm. People are invited to give their views and suggestions as to what the school can do to reduce the risks faced by children and parents.

Pictured: l-r Amy Edwards and school governor Sue Evans