POLICE officers have been called in to monitor parking outside of a primary school although the headteacher has played down the issue.
PCSO Kevin Youds from the Link and Dyson Safer Neighbourhood Team confirmed police attended Somers Park Primary School several times last week and were advising drivers at this stage but would prosecute if people failed to listen.
He added officers would maintain their presence in the area until the problems were resolved and would also continue to carry out regular patrols afterwards.
Headteacher Stuart Sewell sent out a letter in mid-September after parents and residents concerned about the problems contacted the school.
He asked parents to follow the rules of the road and in particular not park on the yellow zig zag markings on Somers Park Avenue, not to park in the nearby church car park, not to leave cars over driveways and requested people to avoid Wilmot Road.
Mr Sewell also warned parents police would be visiting at ‘hot spot’ times and gave notice that offenders would be photographed.
He said the school was doing its bit to alleviate the problem such as staggering start and finish times for different year groups.
One parent who did not wish to be named, described parking as ‘chaotic and dangerous’ outside of the school but the headteacher told the Observer it was not a major issue.
Mr Sewell said he simply wished to remind parents after the summer holidays to follow the highway laws and it was something he did every year.
He also said the presence of police was nothing unusual and praised local officers for their regular support.
“Parking is a problem for all primary schools. The morning in particular is a busy time for parents and the roads become such a busy place which can frustrate neighbours.
“The vast majority of people do follow the rules and this is something we do anyway because we are mindful for the health and safety of pupils.
“We have a great relationship with community police officers who are always keen to support us.
“I am actually really proud we have so many pupils who walk, cycle and use their scooters to come to school. It is something I am very impressed with.”
