ILLEGAL parkers found outside two primary schools were warned they were risking children’s lives.
Police officers patrolled Golcar and Holmfirth Junior and Infant Schools yesterday to warn parents about dangerous parking.
The enforcement operation was part of an on-going initiative organised by Neighbourhood Police teams in Huddersfield.
It followed complaints made by residents near the schools and school staff, who said pulling up in a no-parking zone was endangering the lives of children.
A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “The initiative was not about fining people, it was about raising awareness, so we are pleased that parents took notice of our presence and parked properly.
“We gave verbal warnings to three people who were not wearing a seat belt, however and it is hoped that we will continue with this project into the next school term.”
Pc Natalie Bailey of the Valleys Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This initiative has been devised to deal with the inconsiderate and dangerous parking which is occurring daily at schools in the Colne and Holme Valley areas.
“Child safety and welfare has been our priority today and we hope that our presence has gone some way to increase awareness and highlight the responsibility that drivers have in and around our schools.”
Police operated CCTV vans have previously monitored the area.
Golcar Junior and Infant School formed a Travel Committee with St John’s C of E School and Clr Andrew Marchington to curb careless parking.
Headteacher Karen Taylor said: “It has been an on-going problem and we have tried to stop it.
“It is not all parents, but a few still park dangerously. We have spoken to the community who have offered pub car parks to help parents dropping-off and picking up their children.
“The residents have complained that people put their cars on the pavements and block access.
“This also causes problems for children walking to school and has caused near accidents.”
Year 4 students from Holmfirth Junior and Infants School launched a campaign to try and stop people from parking outside the school.
Deputy head teacher Patricia Skilbeck said: “We have tried to get support for a walking bus where parents and children can meet in Holmfirth and walk together to school.
“We need parents to agree to let their children be involved and help with the walk. It would help reduce the dangers of parking outside the school.”
Residents near Netherthong Primary School, Holmfirth, have complained about illegal parking. They believe residential permits would provide a solution.
