New pedestrian crossing approved outside Atherton High School

Although Hamilton Street, which runs near the high school and Parklee primary, is a 20mph, this is often not complied with and is a common complaint from residents and parents.

Listening to resident's concerns, Atherton South and Lilford Councillors, Lee McStein, Debra Wailes, and John Harding have worked for months with the council's highway department to gain approval for a new crossing, which is now located directly outside the high school.

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Schoolkids joined the police to warn drivers about speeding along Hamilton Street recently (Image: GMP)
Councillor McStein said “The installation of this zebra crossing outside Atherton High School is the culmination of months of consultation, collaboration and numerous discussions with both council officers and people around the community.

"We are delighted to see the safety of Atherton High school students and the local community enhanced by this new crossing. We appreciate the support and understanding of residents nearby, particularly during the consultation and construction period”.

Head of Atherton High School, Ben Layzell said, “We are very pleased that the pedestrian crossing will make a significant contribution to the safety of our pupils, staff and parents and also our surrounding community.

"Thanks to our local councillors for their enduring tenacity to get this crossing installed.”

The school has welcomed the new crossing (Image: Cllr John Harding)

Pleased with the final result, Councillor Wailes said: "There have been slight delays in getting the crossing fully installed but these teething problems were dealt with quickly by the council staff and contractors and, despite some poor weather, the crossing is now fully operational”.

Councillor John Harding added: “Hamilton Street is a designated 20mph zone but, sadly, this is ignored at times by drivers who put our local residents and pupils at risk.

"We are pleased that it is now finished, but additional good news is that, following our further discussions, another pedestrian crossing has been agreed for installation further along Hamilton Street at the Lee Street junction and this will serve Parklee primary school along with other local residents”.

School Governor, Paul Blinkhorn added: “It’s great to see the crossing installed. It will significantly improve the safety for all of the local community and not just pupils, parents and staff”.