Falkirk Council is initiating a comprehensive review of road safety around schools, prompted by repeated concerns over hazardous parking practices during drop-off and pick-up times. This issue has been raised by school staff, parents, and local councillors alike, highlighting the need for action to address problematic parking behaviors.
In a recent council meeting, the idea was proposed that school janitors could potentially be involved in enforcing parking regulations by issuing fines to parents who park poorly. This suggestion was put forward by Baillie James Kerr, leader of the Conservative group, who stated, “I know there would need to be discussions around job descriptions and with trade unions, but I'm sure if you asked every janitor in the local schools, they would like to help make it possible."
The council has allocated £200,000 in this year's capital budget to fund improvements aimed at enhancing road safety in school zones. An external consultant has been engaged to examine the existing circumstances more closely, and feedback forms have been distributed to all 59 schools within the council's jurisdiction.
In addition to involving janitorial staff in potential enforcement measures, the council’s engineering design team is actively evaluating parking availability and the visibility and access issues that may exacerbate unsafe parking. Recommendations for improvements have been prioritised, focusing on both immediate solutions and long-term strategies.
Engineering design manager Gary McGregor expressed caution over the feasibility of involving janitors in the enforcement process, stating he was "not sure this was a route the council could go down." However, he acknowledged the importance of examining the issue further during scheduled meetings between education and road safety officials.
Further discussion at the council meeting also encompassed the possibility of levying fines on parents who leave their engines idling while parked, with officers indicating that while such measures could be enforced, numerous other options for enhancing safety are under consideration.
Councillor Paul Garner, the SNP’s economic development spokesperson, conveyed optimism about the review’s potential impact, asserting that the £200,000 budget could significantly improve road safety around schools.
As the council progresses with its plans, the discussion continues regarding the most effective ways to create a safer environment for children during peak drop-off and pick-up times.
Source: Noah Wire Services