February 15, 2013 5.15 pm This story is over 133 months old

New crossing patrol for Lincoln school

Better safety: A new crossing patrol will be introduced outside Priory Witham Academy in Lincoln, initially on a two-term trial only.
Priory Witham Academy year 6 pupils Lucy Maggs and A.J. McCann, with Councillor Kelly Smith | Photo: Stuart Wilde
Priory Witham Academy year 6 pupils Lucy Maggs and A.J. McCann, with Councillor Kelly Smith | Photo: Stuart Wilde

A new crossing patrol will be introduced outside Priory Witham Academy in Lincoln.

The employment of a new lollipop person follows a consultation with parents, teachers, the local policing team and Lincolnshire County Council.

The school on Moorland Avenue never had a crossing patrol, which raised concerns for pupils’ safety.

Councillor Kelly Smith, who represents Moorland division, said: “I have been working very closely with the academy and the local community to introduce this crossing and I am delighted that the many years of hard work and lobbying have paid off.

“I think it will give parents the confidence to walk their children to school, so I expect that it will contribute towards reducing traffic congestion in the area.”

Headteacher of the Priory Witham Academy, Andrew Madge, said: “Our parents and students have long believed road safety to be an issue in this area, so this is a real step forward.

“We’re sure the crossing will be very well used and that can only bring benefits the whole community.”

The School Crossing Patrol Act gives lollipop people — a person in a high-visiability jacket and sign — the only people apart from police with the power to stop traffic.

Disobeying the sign can lead to three points on a driving licence and a fine of up to £1,000.

Since 2000, crossing patrols can stop traffic to help any pedestrian across the road, regardless of age.

Priory Witham Academy’s patrol will initially be on a two-term trial, with a view to it becoming a permanent fixture.