A RAFT of new measures to improve road safety for school children in Highbridge have been welcomed by headteachers.

Plans for two new pedestrian crossings outside Churchfield School and on Highbridge’s Market Street were given the thumbs up by councillors at a monthly town council meeting on September 4.

Highbridge Town Council approved the measures which they hope will make children in the area feel safer on their way to school.

Justin Philcox, headteacher of Churchfield School, said: “We are delighted there is going to be a crossing outside the school which will improve safety for both the school children and local community.”

Councillors also approved plans for 20mph flashing lights by the entrance to The King Alfred School on Burnham Road.

Headteacher Denise Hurr said: “The school was pleased to hear that the town council has approved the installation of lights outside the school.

“Anything that can be done to slow motorists in the busy area outside of our school is warmly welcomed.”

Cllr John Woodman, cabinet member for Highways and Transport at Somerset County Council, spoke at the meeting about the need for a new crossing outside Churchfield School.

He said the new crossing is ‘essential’ to ensuring young people are safe when crossing the road and said it has been needed in the area for years.

“The lollipop man does a great job but a proper crossing would hugely help to increase road safety,” Cllr Woodman said.

Mike Murphy, chairman of Highbridge Chamber of Trade, unveiled the plans for the new crossing on Market Street and said he thinks they will both make Highbridge a safer place for residents.

He said: “The new crossing at Market Street is great news for residents in Highbridge.

“Residents and children will now be safer on the roads and it will be a great boost for shoppers.”

Town clerk Tatiana Cant said the council approved the safety measures because the authority is “very concerned” about children’s safety.

She said: “Road safety has been an ongoing issue in Highbridge and the council has been concerned about children crossing the road to Churchfield School as it is busy throughout the day.

“Councillors acknowledge that there a number of road safety issues which need to be addressed.

“The council hopes the new pedestrian crossings will help improve road safety for children and residents and reduce the likelihood of accidents in the town.