Concerns have been raised about dangerous parking and heavy traffic in the hopes of making school journeys safer for pupils in Crowthorne.
Concerns are growing over dangerous parking and heavy traffic near schools in Crowthorne, with local councillor Tina Eberle highlighting the issue.
Eberle captured footage of cars queuing and parked dangerously outside Hurst Lodge independent school, located close to Broadmoor Hospital. Dashcam videos reveal eight vehicles blocking a priority give way sign on Upper Broadmoor Road.
In November 2023, Bracknell Forest Council pledged to improve safety for students commuting to school. However, during the latest council meeting, Eberle pressed for updates on the actions taken since.
She stated: “The council passed a motion asking the highways executive to collaborate with local headteachers to explore options for enhancing road safety, including 20 mph speed limits near schools.”
She added that the rise in dangerous parking around Hurst Lodge impacts routes for other local schools, including Edgbarrow, Wildmoor Heath, and Crowthorne Church of England Primary.
Eberle directed her query to councillor Guy Gillbe, the cabinet member for planning, transport, and countryside, asking for updates on safety improvements.
In a written response, Gillbe noted that progress is being made with the council's ‘Safer Routes to School’ initiatives, backed by £400,000 in funding this year. Schools benefiting include Edgbarrow secondary and others across the borough.
Gillbe explained, “Our data-led approach continues as we identify where additional measures could be implemented in future years. I will review the progress with officers this autumn and seek input from local headteachers.”
His response was submitted as he was unavailable for the meeting on September 10.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
