Travel plan to target dangerous drivers

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Speeding motorists and dangerous drivers who ignore children on zebra crossings are just two of the problems highlighted in the Todholm Primary School travel plan launched last week.

The plan aims to:

• cut traffic congestion in the immediate area around the school to increase pupils' safety
• increase the number of pupils who walk to and from school, and highlight this as a healthy lifestyle choice.
• make journeys to and from school safer.
  

Pupils and staff completed a travel survey in the 2006/07 school year. Their views were used to shape the current plan which will be reviewed annually.

Sandra Gibson, Todholm's head teacher, said: "The travel plan aims to tackle the transport problems, both present and future, in and around the school. The changes and projects will be implemented by the school, parents and pupils."

"Travel plans are not just about transport. They are about improving health and the environment, broadening education and contributing to the community."

Todholm Primary School has two junior road safety officers who will be at the launch.

Bani Nhlapo, 11, and Christina Bolton, 11, said: "Walking is important as a lot of children live close to the school and can walk, but not everyone can do this as some live further away. It helps the environment."

"In 2006, 25 children died in road accidents across Scotland. Our jobs as road safety officers is to make sure that the children know about the dangers of the road. Rain or shine, happy or sad, just remember to walk safe and be glad."

Under the plan, it is hoped to:

• reinforce the road safety message throughout the school
• increase walking by 3% by March 2009
• encourage children to walk during the school day
• introduce the Scottish Cycling Scheme for all P6 children

Press release: Wednesday 19 March 2008