Roll-out of safer school zones continues

16 Jan 2020 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

More than 80 schools in Northumberland are now safer thanks to the ongoing roll-out of 20mph limits outside their buildings.

Around £350,000 from each year’s Local Transport Plan is being used to drive forward the safety scheme. Priority is given to schools where known issues exist, for example where drivers are going too fast.

Of the 164 schools across the county, 84 are now complete, with the remainder earmarked for speed reduction measures over the next two years.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Local Services said: “Residents are rightly concerned about the volume of vehicles travelling at high speed through their communities.

“Slower speeds bring obvious benefits to places and people – particularly outside schools. They help to encourage walking and cycling by reducing the risk and severity of collisions, and the reduced speed makes it easier for people to cross roads.

“The public have told us they want more 20mph limits around schools and we’ve been investing significant resources, wherever this is appropriate, to make it happen as soon as possible.

“From Berwick to Blyth and across to Haydon Bridge, scores of 20mph zones have been introduced improving safety for pupils, parents and carers, teachers and residents.”