St Martin’s School’s traffic-limiting trial is to be extended

The Environment & Infrastructure initiative meant La Route des Coutures was closed to traffic from 8.30am to 9am and 2.45pm to 3.15pm on weekdays.

It was trialled for a week before Easter.

St Martin’s Primary School headteacher Clare Giles said it was very well received.

‘The school undertook a survey following the week-long trial and found that over 80% of the members of the school community were in favour of making this initiative permanent, which highlights the positive response,’ she said.

‘It’s important to remember that this was all started off because pupils were concerned about the risks they encountered during drop-off and pick-up times around school and they wanted to do something about it.’

The official trial is due to start once permanent signage is in place and could be extended to 12 months before being reviewed.

Not all parishioners agree with the plan though, with St Martin’s junior constable Dave Beausire voicing his concerns.

‘There’s been no consultation with constables or douzaine and I think they should have taken more time in coming to a decision,’ he said.

‘Two-way is not the answer, it’s now causing congestion to three more access points in the parish at busy times, especially in the morning when everyone is making their commutes.’

Cyclists and people accessing properties are still able to travel down the road.

Parents are also able to drop off children at the St Martin’s Community Centre, however they cannot to pick them up.

St Martin’s rector the Rev. Daniel Foot said he did not have to think twice about allowing this.

‘I’m extremely supportive of the scheme, the road’s been on the dangerous side so when I was asked about the drop off I said yes straight away,’ he said.

‘It also helps children with active travel.’

Mr Foot also added that community support has been high.

‘We have a comments box and I’ve only seen positive feedback.’