Schools Representatives, Councillors, Police and the Council Highways Department met this week to discuss the formation of a Road Management School Safety Committee to tackle illegal and inconsiderate parking in Great Aycliffe.
The group, which met at Sugar Hill School, had the support of Police Commissioner Ron Hogg and was called by Town Councillor Paul Kjenstad, Vice Chairman of the Governors at Sugar Hill.
The committee will meet regularly to monitor systems put in place to solve the road safety problems around schools. Incidents will be logged and reported with parents kept informed through newsletters designed to encourage their co-operation.
Paul Kjenstafd was elected Chairman, Katie Bain-Collins Vice Chairperson and Vane Road School agreed to provide a Secretary. A treasurer would be appointed at a later date when funding came into the equation.
Ron Hogg said it was a ‘fabulous initiative’ and by bringing all schools together could solve the problem as the Police cannot do it alone. He thought the idea could be a model for all schools in the County and he would do all he could do back the methods used to improve the situation. He said he had just purchased 10 Laser Speed Guns to be issued to problem areas by the Police. His suggestion to organise a ‘Week of Action’ in the town to raise awareness was agreed.
Inspector Hall on behalf of the police said he was very pleased to see how everyone was getting involved and he would help address the concerns mentioned including taxi companies who completely ignored the no parking areas and were abusive when approached. He said these companies could be in danger of losing their licences.
Ron Hogg said a mobile phone app was being introduced where video evidence of illegal activity could be used in prosecutions and would act as a deterrent.
