Pupils at four Coventry primaries have backed a road safety campaign by creating on-street artwork urging motorists to stick to 20mph near school gates.
Youngsters from Christ the King, Ernesford Grange, Moat House and Potters Green primary schools took part in an art competition – organised by West Midlands Fire Service – with the winning designs set to feature on road signs alerting drivers to the new lower speed limit.
A total of 250 entries were submitted by five-to-nine-year-olds with a shortlist of three from each school put to the public’s vote on Coventry Police’s Facebook page.
Hundreds of social media users cast votes for their favourites with Ciara Nurse, Ellie Curtis, Nayrat Saeed and Molly Ryan – from the four schools respectively – registering the most nominations.
All four girls were handed certificates, plus a miniature version of their own metal street sign, during a special presentation event at Coventry City Council on 13th October.
Coventry Police Inspector Steve Malone, said: “Studies by the Department for Transport and World Health Organisation show the chances of children being killed if struck by a vehicle are hugely increased at speeds above 20mph.
“Just a small reduction in average speed has a dramatic impact on the number and severity of collisions.
“These new lower speed limits will be introduced on roads surrounding these schools – I’m sure all drivers will agree that if lowering the speed limit near schools helps to save a child’s life then it has to be a positive step.”
The 20mph limits are expected to be introduced before the end of the year.
Neighbourhood police officers, working alongside community members, will conduct road safety operations in the lower speed zones to educate drivers and to prosecute the most serious or repeat offenders.
Cllr Jayne Innes, Coventry City Council’s cabinet member for City Services, said: “The involvement of children from schools where these signs and limits will be in place is a great way of highlighting the dangers of speeding in built-up areas.
“These winning designs help to re-enforce the message around schools that speeding is unacceptable and the lower the speed, the more the chance of avoiding an accident or at least minimising the risk of serious injury. We are pleased to be a partner in this initiative and all our congratulations go to the winners and all who took part in the art competition.”
