20mph rollout starts: Council prioritises pupil safety

A programme to introduce 20 mph speed limits outside schools across the borough is nearing completion.

The changes follow a comprehensive assessment of roads surrounding school entrances. Based on this work, speed limit reductions were recommended for 16 schools to help improve safety for children, parents and carers travelling to and from school.

Two of the first schools to benefit from the new measures were Whitegate Church of England Primary School and Abbey Gate College, Saighton.

Caroline Mackenzie, Headteacher at Whitegate Church of England Primary School, said:

“We are delighted that the 20mph limit is now in place. It has been great to work with the Council on several initiatives to reduce danger within our village. Once again, this highlights that the safety of our children is of paramount importance. We urge all motorists to adhere to the new speed limit.”

Craig Jenkinson, Headteacher at Abbey Gate College, said:

“Our entire Abbey Gate College community is sincerely grateful to the Council for their support in reducing drivers’ speeds to 20mph past our school. Caring for the safety of all children must be a top priority in our society. Slowing down for a short distance may cost a driver only a few seconds; not slowing down could cost a child their life.

“The 20mph extension beyond Saighton Primary – now including our Senior School – is intended to promote considerate, patient and cautious driving from us all. We ask for every driver’s understanding and support.”

Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, said:

“Creating safe, welcoming streets around our schools is one of the most important things we can do for our children.

“After carefully reviewing every school road with speed limits above 20mph, we identified where lower limits and additional safety measures could make a real difference to the lives of our young people. We’re now putting these improvements in place, because every child deserves to travel to and from school feeling safe and protected.

“Slower speeds don’t just reduce the risk and severity of collisions — they help create the kind of environment where children can move with confidence, free from unnecessary danger. Their safety must always come first.

“Our Safe Routes to School Officer continues to work closely with schools and families to support safer journeys. We all have a part to play in protecting our little ones, so I’d encourage everyone to help keep school areas safe for the children who use them every day.”

Pictured - Councillor Karen Shore with Abbey Gate College's headteacher, Craig Jenkinson.