Every day, I worry about the safety of children outside Scarning Primary School due to the current speed limit situation. My heart races when I think about the cars and lorries travelling past the school at speeds that, although technically 'advised' to slow down when children are present, are legally permitted to drive much faster. This might be coming from a place of fear, but it's one shared by many parents who watch their children navigate this hazardous environment daily. We need to make the road safer on the approach either side from where the current 40mph signs begin near the co-op, through to the Scarning lay-by where the old fire post stands. If you want the parents to walk and reduce parking at the school, we need to make it safer for those to walk! Currently many parents and grandparents have concerns about the road which deters them from walking with their children. 

Statistics show that the consequences of speed in pedestrian collisions are stark and alarming. When a vehicle hits a pedestrian at 20mph, there is a 90-97.5% chance of survival. However, when that speed increases to 40mph, the survival rate drops drastically to only 10-20%. This difference can mean life or death for the precious children of Scarning, a risk that is unnecessary and preventable.

Currently, the 20mph limit around our school is only advisory, observed at best during pickup and drop-off hours. This is not enough. The safety of our children should not be left to discretion or chance. We need a permanent, mandatory 20mph speed limit zone enforced by law to ensure the safety of our children and all pedestrians around the school.

By turning this advisory speed limit into law, with clear signage and proper enforcement, we can ensure that drivers are always reminded to drive safely near the school. Additionally, speed cameras or regular police monitoring can be introduced to ensure compliance and to reassure the community that this isn't just another suggestion but a critical mandate for public safety.

This petition is not just about regulating speed; it's about setting a precedent of taking proactive measures for the safety of our children and everyone in Scarning. It's about creating a community where parents can have peace of mind knowing their children are safe.

Please, join me in making a substantial difference—sign this petition to urge our local council and lawmakers to enforce a permanent 20mph speed limit outside Scarning Primary School. Together, we can create a safer environment for our children and community.