RESTRICTIONS on a busy Prudhoe street have been made permanent following a successful trial.

Waiting times on Highfield Lane in Prudhoe were made permanent on May 20.

The restrictions mean that there are no waiting times between 8:10am – 9:30am and 2:45pm – 4pm.

They were initially imposed in 2018 after concerns were raised by St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School, Highfield Middle School, parents, local residents and school crossing patrols regarding congestion problems and road safety issues during school drop-off and pick-up times.

County councillor Ken Stow who represents Prudhoe North, said: “Serious road safety concerns were raised and consultation carried out.

“The major issues occur around school drop off and pick up times.

“We would encourage everyone to take extra care around all Schools.”

In 2018, a letter detailing the plans from the county council’s highways programme said: “It has been reported that during school pick-up and drop-off times, the narrow roads, combined with inconsiderate parking, effectively reduces the carriageway down to single lane traffic.

“This results in vehicles travelling from both directions and meeting each other head on, forcing one or more vehicles to reverse back along the obstructed highway.”

The consultation was originally due to last a year, but was extended.