MANGAWHAI'S NO.1 NEWSPAPER
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Stepping up safety at school crossingsBY JULIA WADE
Getting to school has become a whole lot safer recently for Mangawhai Beach School (MBS) students, thanks to the installation of new electronic speed-warning signals. Variable speed limit signs (VSL) were installed in late June along Insley Street on either side of the school, after MBS Board of Trustees, supported by Otamatea Ward councillor Jonathan Larsen, approached Kaipara District Council with concerns regarding speeding in front of the school. Larsen says the VSL’s display the reduced speed from 50kmh to 40 during morning and afternoon school zone times however MBS can also turn the signs on for special events such as sports or the annual gala. Parents are also volunteering their early morning hours to assist children safely over the current crossing and around the parking area of the busy school. However the MBS Board and Larsen are also looking into improvements to the schools crossing. “Contrary to what was previously thought, a zebra crossing is not required to have a patrolled school crossing, which is called a 'Kea' crossing,” Larsen says. “However the current crossing doesn't meet the standard for a Kea crossing and is being redesigned to comply. Once this has occurred Council will issue the school with the required barrier arms and high-vis jerkins, and the school can put in place organised morning and afternoon patrols.” Completion of the new crossing is scheduled to be completed within 2018-2019. “I certainly hope it will be all completed sooner rather than later in the year,” Larsen says. “I’ll be keeping an eye on progress to keep the momentum going.” Electronic warning signals flashing out driver speed helps to make Insley St a lot safer for Mangawhai Beach School students. |
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