Agenda item

Laurie Johnston, spokesperson for the deputation introduced herself as a member of the Dulwich and Herne Hill Safe Routes to Schools group.  She addressed the meeting to explain that the deputation wanted to support the proposed scheme for the Townley Road junction.

Laurie said evidence in regard to the dangers of this junction and the plans to change it had been in the public domain for a number of years. 

Laurie thanked the council and councillors for consulting widely and fairly and also for listening to the concerns of residents about the strong opposition to the right turn ban.  Laurie also thanked officers for working so quickly to produce an alternative and more acceptable scheme. 

Laurie mentioned that children were generally forgotten about when important debates and decisions were made, especially when it was likely to affect them.  Laurie said the key issue was the safety of the community’s children and it was the duty of responsible adults to keep children safe.  The Townley Road junction was considered unsafe and as a result, two lollipop ladies were deployed to help the large number of children that use the road.

Laurie responded to detailed questions from the audience and referred to the tremendous support the group had received as many of the local schools were actively involved in travel plans.  Many of the children were also encouraged to cycle to school.

Laurie also said from the options the council were proposing, the group would consider the option that reduced traffic and benefitted the children, pedestrians and cyclists.