Wokingham

Pupils at Loddon Infant and Junior Schools could be set for a safer journey to school as Wokingham District Council’s decision-making executive considers road safety measures.

At their meeting on Thursday January 26, members of the Wokingham executive will consider proposals to repaint the ‘School Keep Clear’ markings on Silverdale Road making them clearer to road-users as well as a plan to introduce a limited waiting restriction. It is intended that this will be effective during school drop-off and pick-up times whilst allowing parking at other times of day. This measure is designed to increase visibility for vehicles approaching the bends as well as for pedestrians crossing the road. “No waiting at any time” restrictions are also planned for Silverdale Road’s junctions with Hillside Road and Gipsy Lane.

Whilst objections have been raised to this proposal, Wokingham council’s highways consultative board has recommended its approval as it would allow on-street parking outside of the waiting restrictions whilst the restrictions near to the junctions would bring important safety improvements.

The areas left open for parking are also expected to act as informal traffic calming. Wokingham council is currently trying to fill the vacancy for a school crossing patroller and, if the proposals are agreed, the removal of cars at the designated crossing point is intended to ensure visibility for the new patroller when recruited, as well as for parents who will no longer need to cross behind parked cars.

If given the go-ahead by the executive, it is estimated that the work will cost £2,000.

Executive member for highways and transport Wokingham Cllr Anthony Pollock said: “The council is continually exploring new ways to improve the highways service it provides. If the executive gives the go-ahead to these proposed amendments, I hope that everyone using the road will see improved safety.”

Wokingham District Council