CCTV to catch drivers flouting parking rules outside Telford schools in new pilot scheme

Drivers who ignore school keep clear markings could face enforcement action as Telford & Wrekin Council launches a pilot to tackle unsafe parking outside schools.

A new pilot scheme to crack down on dangerous parking outside schools will launch in Telford in November.

The initiative will use a range of measures, including CCTV technology to monitor marked keep clear zones outside of five schools in the Telford & Wrekin borough.

A council spokesperson said the authority had received concerns from schools and local communities about parking behaviour outside a number of schools, particularly where vehicles can impede sight lines and affect the safe movement of pedestrians and traffic.

The new scheme will take place at Wrekin View Primary School and St Patrick's Catholic School in Wellington, Moorfield Primary School and Newport Church of England Primary School in Newport, and Thomas Telford Secondary and Sixth Form.

Councillor Nathan England, Cabinet Member for Safer Streets and Better Housing, said: "Every child should be able to travel to and from school safely.

“This pilot is about creating a safer environment outside school gates by keeping visibility clear and supporting safer crossing opportunities for children and families.

“The vast majority of motorists park responsibly and considerately. However, there are occasions when parking in keep clear areas can make it more difficult for children, parents and carers to move around safely.

“We want to work with schools, families and local communities to encourage safer parking behaviour and greater awareness of the existing restrictions. The use of CCTV is just one element of the pilot and will help us understand where further improvements may be needed.

“Our priority is to improve safety and compliance rather than issue penalties. However, where restrictions are repeatedly ignored and safety is put at risk, we will take appropriate enforcement action.

“This initiative supports our Child Friendly initiative by putting children's safety and wellbeing first, and making sure they can get to and from school safely.”

Ahead of the scheme, the local authority was reminding motorists to observe road markings and signage and to avoid stopping within marked keep clear areas.