MP in call to reduce 60mph speed limit outside Longridge school
An MP has thrown her weight behind calls for speed limit changes outside a Lancashire school - because it is three times more than what is recommended.
Parents at Hillside Specialist School have raised growing concerns about the 60mph speed limit in Ribchester Road, when Government guidance recommends 20mph restrictions outside schools, where appropriate.
Now Ribble Valley MP Maya Ellis has thrown her weight behind a campaign to have the limit altered, and has asked for the situation to be reviewed “asap”.
She said: “I’ve asked for clarification on LCC’s position on this road and asked whether there is scope for lowering the limit to at least 30mph, ideally 20mph.”
Mrs Ellis has alsdo shared the letter she has written to highways bosses at Lancashire County Council.
It says: “Our current understanding is that government guidance recommends 20mph limits outside schools where appropriate. However, the speed limit outside Hillside School remains at 60mph. Given that this stretch includes a junction that is already considered dangerous, and with the addition of the new Tootle Green residential development just be find where the limit reduces from 60mph to 30mph into Longridge, there are increasing concerns about safety in this area.
“I would be grateful if you could outline CC's current position regarding this section of road, and whether there is scope to reduce the speed limit to at least 30mph - and ideally 20mph - from Hillside Specialist School and College through to the junction. As you will be aware, many vehicles are already slowing as they approach the junction, which may support a formal reduction.
Parents, teachers, and pupils at Hillside would strongly welcome measures to improve safety at the school entrance and in the surrounding area.”
A Lancashire County Council spokesman said: "We are aware of concerns and we have installed signs to warn drivers of a temporary transient hazard on the road at drop off and pick up times.
"However, the school is self-contained and all pupils leave and arrive by prearranged bus services in a dedicated, secure site away from the main road.
"We are not seeking to alter the speed limit at this section of the road, given the current good road safety record and road characteristics, and on the basis that the access road itself has good visibility for drivers to be able to see cars slowing to turn into it, or leave it.
"Nevertheless, drivers should always bear in mind that the speed limit is not a target, and always drive to the current conditions."
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