Humps must go' - PTA

PARENTS are calling for the swift removal of the St Andrew's road humps. Members of the parish school's parent-teacher association met to air their views over traffic safety in the area.

The controversial mounds gathered a storm of protest from residents and motorists after they were installed last year.

Now concerned parents are calling for Environment to explore alternatives.

Chairman Adrian Hale said the association was unhappy that the unsightly speed cushions had been made a permanent fixture.

'The PTA continues to receive comments from parents and members of the public who firmly believe that the road humps do not work,' he said.

'It is clear they need to be removed and other options trialled.'

Every school day, pupils cross the busy road - used by traffic going to Specsavers and the airport, among other destinations - and campaigners fought to make the crossing safer for youngsters.

It was hoped that the humps would slow down traffic, but residents have watched drivers swerve around them and accelerate over them.

The Environment Department said the humps had reduced speed in the area and were the best safety option.

But this has not satisfied parents of pupils at St Andrew's Primary.

'The PTA would like to see a more-prominent crossing to alert drivers, such as flashing lollipop signs and black and white markings,' said Mr Hale.

'The safety of the school children and families using the crossing is paramount.'

Some residents have called for the installation of traffic lights, which was one of the four recommendations from UK consultants in a document drafted last year.

Environment admitted that was the most expensive option and has ruled out installing even temporary traffic lights.

Rumours were circulating in the area that the PTA had decided to take matters into its own hands.

But Mr Hale added: 'The current PTA have never considered purchasing the traffic lights through a fund-raising option.

'Having met last night 'Thursday', we consider that this would not be something that the PTA would consider pursuing in the future.'