Pupils put 'at risk' by heavy traffic (From Barry And District News)

Pupils put 'at risk' by heavy traffic

BARRY pupils are being put at risk by thoughtless motorists driving children to school according to a headteacher.

High Street Primary boss Sian Howell says she is is frustrated at the lack of consideration shown by people parking by the gates on double yellow lines.

The main entrance to High Street Primary is in Aberystwyth Crescent, as is Ysgol Sant Baruc.

The road is a dead end and cars who drive up the narrow street have to reverse out. Mrs Howell told the News: "From 8.30am to 9am and 3.15pm to 3.45pm, this road is a nightmare.

"Parents make matters worse by driving up this narrow route. They are blocking the way for emergency vehicles.

"I have encouraged working parents living near the school to take advantage of our breakfast club if they have to get to jobs on time.

"But otherwise, if you live within walking distance, please leave your cars behind."

There is a lane halfway up the road cars reverse up to drive out of the road.

Otherwise they have to reverse straight onto Trinity Street.

Resident Sue Gershenson, 35, agrees. She said: "When I come home in the afternoon, I know unless I get my car into a space before 3.15pm, I can forget it.

"I live just up from the lane, and if it's blocked for some reason, it gets really dangerous." Parent Sarah Gibson from Woodham Park has two children at the school. Aron is five and Carys is nine. She said: "If I haven't got a lift, it is treacherous trying to walk past reversing cars.

"There is going to be a serious accident here soon."

St Baruc headteacher Mr Griffiths added: "It is an on-going problem and we are concerned about the safety of pupils and parents in this area. We would appreciate any solution to this situation."

A police spokesman said: "We would ask parents driving their children to school to consider the safety of others and not park on these restricted areas."