Dear Parents/Carers

I am writing to ask for your urgent support regarding ongoing concerns about parking and road safety around our school and in the surrounding residential areas. 

Over recent weeks, we have received an increasing number of reports from both parents and local residents about inconsiderate parking and unsafe driving practices at the start and end of the school day. These concerns include: 

• Vehicles being parked in ways that prevent traffic from passing safely in both directions. 

• Families becoming delayed or trapped behind blocked roads. 

• Vehicles manoeuvring in confined spaces without sufficient care and consideration. 

• Pavements being obstructed, forcing pedestrians, including children, into the road. 

• Children being allowed to play, run unsupervised and enter private driveways and gardens while parents wait nearby. 

Many parents have expressed genuine fears that, if these behaviours continue, it is only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs. As a community, we must not wait for a child to be injured before we recognise the risks that currently exist and take action. 

I appreciate that school drop-off and collection times can be busy and that everyone is trying to get to and from school as efficiently as possible. However, convenience must never come before safety. In many cases, parking just a little further away from the school site and walking the remaining distance would significantly reduce congestion and improve safety for everyone. Equally, if there is time to socialise before drop-off or  collection, there is time to park in a more appropriate location. 

I must also address concerns relating to the use of Ewan's Close and other residential areas. Residents have reported children running in and out of driveways, climbing on or hanging from fences, and running around cars while waiting to go into school. This is unacceptable. We ask all parents and carers to ensure that children remain under close supervision at all times and show respect for our neighbours and their homes. 

As members of the Ash Grange community, we all have a responsibility to demonstrate consideration, respect and care for others. I therefore ask that all parents and carers: 

• Park legally and considerately. 

• Avoid blocking roads, driveways and pavements. 

• Allow sufficient space for vehicles to pass safely. 

• Supervise children closely before and after school. 

• Respect residents' property and private spaces. 

• Consider parking further away from the school and walking the final part of the journey. 

Our relationships with local residents are important, and we want to ensure that our presence in the community is viewed positively. More importantly, we all share a collective responsibility for keeping children, families and residents safe. 

Thank you for your support and cooperation in addressing these concerns. By working together and making small changes to our daily routines, we can create a safer environment for everyone. 

Yours sincerely, 

Mrs M Curtis 
Headteacher 
Ash Grange Nursery and Primary School