Agenda and minutes

It was confirmed that all business of the meeting would take place in public.

Concerns and suggestions made at the meeting by the petitioners and children of Warrender School included the following:

• Nearly half of all parents whose children attended the school were concerned about speeding cars and dangerous road crossings
• Parents wanted better crossings and reduced speeds on the roads around Warrender School
• A parents survey found that a quarter of all parents were worried about traffic congestion
• The petitioners Residents Survey found 96% of local residents found the daily school run was a huge problem causing traffic congestion, blocked driveways and inconsiderate parking.
• 78% of the residents surveyed wanted something done.
• The school had started a Walk On Wednesdays scheme, campaigning children to walk or cycle to school on Wednesdays. A survey found that 85% of the children were taking part in this scheme.
• The school’s Children’s Survey found that one third of all the students would like to cycle to school.
• Warrender School had undertaken plans to double the size of the pavement along the front of the school and widen the footpath at the bottom of the slope at the front of the school. The introduction of electric gates at the top of the drive would keep the road and car park for vehicles only. The introduction of a canopy along the front of the school would keep parents dry while waiting for their children before beginning their walk home. These improvements would cost £25,000.
• A letter of support from previous head teacher was read out outlining his support for the introduction of a pedestrian crossing outside Warrender School

Councillor Bruce Baker attended the hearing in support of the petitioners.

The Cabinet Member listened to the issues and concerns raised and informed petitioners that a statutory consultation would need to be carried out to determine the next steps. However, he was confident that the outcome would lead to the introduction of a pedestrian crossing on Windmill Hill.  

Resolved

The Cabinet Member:

1. Considered the request and discusses with petitioners their particular concerns             with safety aspects for pupils on their journey towards and away from Warrender School.

2. Asked officers to develop the preferred option B identified with the petitioners including estimated costs and proceed with the statutory consultation with residents and report back the outcome to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation, who would then authorise the pedestrian crossing.

Reasons for recommendation

Discussions between the Cabinet Member and petitioners will allow a list of options to be developed that will improve safety for pupils attending Warrender School so that investigation of feasible measures can be explored in further detail by Officers including the estimated costs involved. 

Alternative options considered

These were discussed with the petitioners.

Relevant Ward:

Eastcote & East Ruislip