Labour's proposal to cut funding for school crossing patrols in Trafford has sparked concerns among local communities, with residents warning that these vital services could be phased out, potentially replacing them with Pelican or Toucan Crossings. This plan, aimed at saving £100,000, has led to heated debates about the safety of children and the effectiveness of alternative measures.
The familiar figures of the "Lollipop Men and Women" who ensure the safe crossing of children at local schools may soon become a thing of the past. Labour’s proposal suggests the phased replacement of these patrols with automated crossings, such as pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings. While these crossings could offer some safety benefits, there are concerns about the human touch being lost in safeguarding young children, especially those who may need extra assistance.
Former Broadheath ward councillor, Kaushik Chakraborty, has long been advocating for improved pedestrian crossings at the dangerous junction of the A56 and Sinderland Road. Despite his efforts, the Labour-led council has failed to implement any solution, leaving local residents frustrated and worried about the ongoing risks to children’s safety. Conservative councillors argue that the Labour council’s focus on cuts rather than proactive safety measures is putting vulnerable road users at risk.
Additionally, Councillor Nathan Evans has expressed frustration with Labour's inability to fill crossing patrol vacancies. He highlighted that when a vacancy in Manor Ward became available, it was only through the efforts of Conservative Councillor Rob Duncan that the issue was resolved. Cllr Duncan took to social media to advertise the position, sending the details of applicants to the council, who then successfully recruited a new school crossing patrol officer.
In response to the proposed cuts, Evans and other local officials are calling on Labour to prioritise children's safety. They are demanding that the council trial pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings before considering axing the school patrols. These crossings, which are designed to provide safer crossings for pedestrians, could offer a compromise by addressing both safety concerns and budget constraints.
Conservative councillors are demanding Labour put in the new crossings first and trial them before any other action. The loss of school crossing patrols could have a significant impact on the safety of children, and they believe it is crucial for the council to explore all options before making such a drastic decision.
Conservative councillors are not willing to let the safety of their children be compromised in the name of cost-cutting.