John Baron MP, Quilter’s School Headteacher, parents and Essex Highways meet over dangerous crossing

John, Michael, parents and Chris meeting at the crossing

MP organises meeting on site to discuss concerns

Today John Baron MP organised a meeting with Mr Michael Wade [Headteacher, Quilter’s Junior School], parent representatives and Mr Chris Stoneham of Essex Highways to discuss concerns about a local crossing. The crossing in question is on London Road, close to the Sun Corner roundabout.

John said:

“There have been a number of near-misses at the London Road crossing which have involved parents and children, and one or two accidents. We were therefore grateful that Chris Stoneham from Essex Highways met us to discuss our concerns, which included a visit to the crossing.”

“Essex Highways is now going to look at a range of measures to improve the visibility of the crossing. The worry is that some drivers see the crossing too late, particularly when coming off the roundabout – it could be much better highlighted in both directions. If this fails, other measures will be considered. We must act before there is a fatality.”

Michael Wade [Headteacher, Quilters Junior School] said:

“Like a great many of my parents, I have grave concerns about the roundabout on Sun Corner.  I am aware of numerous near misses involving pupils at my school.  There could easily be a fatal accident.”

“My parents and I had a very positive conversation today with John Baron MP and a member of the local Highways team where it was agreed that signage was an issue that needed to be raised and addressed at the correct level as a matter of urgency.”

“I am very positive that through our petitions and our community action we can find a solution that enhances the safety of the 900+ children who use that roundabout and the surrounding crossings every day.”

Notes to Editors

• John, with the help of Michael, parents and County Councillors have already submitted a petition to Essex Highways to illustrate the strength of feeling about this issue.