Busy school road to be narrowed over safety fears

A busy road next to a primary school is set to be partially narrowed and given improved pedestrian access following safety fears.

Wiltshire Council has confirmed it will temporarily close Berryfield Road in Bradford-on-Avon for several weeks over the summer holidays to allow work to be carried out.

The road, which is particularly busy during school pick up and drop off times at Christchurch Primary School, will be narrowed at each end by extending the kerbs.

Cabinet member for highways, Nick Holder, said the plans had been developed following concern from local residents "about increased through traffic in the area and pedestrian safety".

Mr Holder added: "The works will be carried out during the school summer holiday to minimise disruption.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused during this time, but we look forward to the completed initiative providing a safer route for local residents and school children."

The Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group (LHFIG) and Bradford-on-Avon Town Council have been awarded funding to carry out the work, with a temporary road closure in place from 29 July to 23 August.

Narrowing of the road will take place at its junction with Bath Road with a new gateway surface treatment (extending the kerbs) and an improved pedestrian crossing facility.

The junction of Berryfield Road and Sladesbrook will also see a gateway treatment installed to mirror this approach.

Extra pedestrian space outside the primary school will also be created to deter cars from parking there, converting the existing layby into a car-free area.

"School Keep Clear" markings and a new double yellow line will also be added on the road.

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