On 29 May 2023, my son Leo tragically lost his life in a road accident on George Road, in front of Boulton Walk, Stockland Green, Erdington, just immediately close to Brookvale Primary School. Leo would have been a student at the school, and on that fatal day, we were walking back home after my twin boys wanted to show their granddad their school for the next year. I left home with two boys, but I returned with only one. Only one of my children now attend Brookvale Primary School.

George Road runs very close to the school, with children crossing it daily on their way to and from school, and from the nearby park. The current 30 mph speed limit is unsafe, especially in such close proximity to a primary school. The road lacks essential safety features: no pedestrian or zebra crossing, no solid or dashed lane markings, dangerous parking during school hours, which obstructs visibility for those crossing

It is heartbreaking to live so close to the site of this accident, knowing that this dangerous road continues to pose a threat. It pains me and his twin brother to think that another child could suffer the same fate if nothing changes. This tragedy changed surely our lives forever, but I believe it must have also had a devastating impact on the driver involved. No one should have to live with the burden of such an accident. That’s why we are calling on the authorities to take responsibility and act — to put in place speed limits and road safety strategies that prevent this from ever happening again.

This issue was first reported to the authorities one year ago, with the support of school, yet no action has been taken. Nearly two years have now passed since Leo’s tragic death, and we are still waiting for the necessary changes to be made.

We have now launched this petition to demand the following safety improvements:

• Installation of a zebra or pedestrian crossing
• Solid line between traffic lanes
• Double yellow lines and kerb markings near the crossing area
• Reduction of the speed limit to 20 mph
• Implementation of any other appropriate traffic-calming strategies (such as the presence of a school crossing patrol/lollipop person)

These changes are not only essential for protecting students, but also for safeguarding the wider community.

We understand that planning and approvals take time, but the safety and lives of our children must take priority.

Please help us turn Leo's tragedy into change.

Sign and share this petition to prevent another heartbreaking loss.

With gratitude,
Ms. Federica D’Asta
Leo’s mom and Stockland Green Ward Resident