New traffic calming measures near Winsford Academy

Although there are warning signs, speed bumps and a 20 miles per hour speed limit in Grange Lane, the school receives regular reports of motorists passing at much higher speeds.

Councillors Tom Blackmore and Gina Lewis met with former principal Gary Evans to discuss how they could make Grange Lane safer.

And earlier this summer, new 'wig wag lights' have been installed near the junction with Nixon Drive.

'Wig wag lights' are most often seen at railway level crossings and fire and ambulance stations, to enable emergency vehicles to exit the station.

Grange Lane: Matt Simpson, Newsquest (Image: Matt Simpson, Newsquest)

Councillor Gina Lewis said: “One motorist was witnessed leaning out of his window and cursing at one of the children, who had looked about before stepping into the road.

"The road had been clear, but the driver was going far too fast.

“We had hoped for a proper crossing, like the one at Over Hall Community School, but that was not financially possible. 

“We hope the wig wag lights will heighten awareness as motorists approach the academy, making it safer for the youngsters.

“They are small, but they are noticeable when they are operating - that’s the beauty of them.

“There is already so much in Grange Lane, we didn’t want something that is a permanent distraction.”

The problem is worst at the end of the school day when large amounts of students leave at the same time.

The school had been operating a system where different year groups were allowed to leave different times with at least two members of staff on hand to supervise.   

The new traffic calming measures cost £1,200 and were funded jointly by the Fallibroome Academy Trust and Engie – the building firm responsible for the nearby Verdin Fields housing development.

They were installed during the summer holidays, ready for the start of the 2022/23 academic year.