A PARENT has launched a petition calling for road safety improvements outside Allendale Primary School.

Carey Stuart has called for a pedestrian crossing on the B6303 road in front of the school’s front entrance.

The mum-of-two said the road, which currently has a 30mph limit, is not a safe environment for parents walking their children to school.

She explained: “One problem is that cars travel too fast along that stretch of road, and another is the number of cars which park on the side of the road opposite the school entrance.

“To cross the road, you have to walk out between the parked cars, so you can’t see what’s coming.

“It is very dangerous and I fear that something serious could happen unless action is taken.

“A crossing point would create a safer environment and cars would have to park a specified distance from the crossing.

“I would also urge all motorists, including parents taking children to and from school, not to park opposite the school. Please keep this area clear so it is safer for pedestrians.”

Northumberland County Council has started introducing 20mph speed limit zones outside all Northumberland schools.

This week, local county councillor Colin Horncastle said a reduced limit for the road outside Allendale Primary was imminent.

He added: “I’ve been working to progress this scheme for a reduced 20mph limit for some time because it is absolutely vital, and I am confident that it is now imminent.”

Coun. Horncastle said he was also hoping to see the introduction of other traffic calming measures outside the school, including granite setts.

He added: “We’ve recently introduced flashing speed signs in Catton, and it might be possible to do the same in this part of Allendale. Parking opposite the school is a problem. There’s plenty of room for parents to park in the village and walk their children 100 yards to school.”