Bad parking at schools risks lives, fire crews warn

A fire chief has hit out at "inconsiderate parking" during the school run which could put lives at risk.

Footage has been released showing engines struggling to get past cars near schools in North Tyneside.

It was filmed as part of a mock exercise to highlight how badly-parked vehicles can slow down crews responding to a real emergency.

Trevor Sturrock, station manager at Wallsend Community Fire Station, said the problem was widespread.

The footage, filmed earlier in December, shows a fire engine struggling to pass a poorly parked car on Hailsham Avenue in Longbenton, near Newcastle, during the afternoon school run.

The road is used to access Longbenton High School and the Benton Dene Schools campus.

“It’s very frustrating to see on a regular basis people inconsiderately parking their vehicles near to school entrance zones,” said Mr Sturrock.

"All we ask is for road users to take a moment and think about where they are parking and the potential repercussions of their actions".

A spokesperson for Benton Dene Schools said they hoped it would provide "a helpful reminder" to ensure emergency vehicles are able to get through.

“There are five schools accessing Hailsham Avenue, which can quickly become congested during drop off and collection times," they said.

“It was important to us to work with the fire service to highlight to parents and carers living within our school community the importance of parking considerately."

North Tyneside councillor Hannah Johnson said those who had to drive to school should park as far away as possible, and walk or cycle the rest of the way.

“As well as making it safer for children on their way to and from school, this has substantial health and environmental benefits and minimises the danger of causing delays to emergency vehicles,” she added.

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