Pupils staged a protest against drivers parking on a roundabout near their school amid road safety fears.

Youngsters at Brunswick Park Primary and Nursery School in Osidge Lane waved hand-made placards and chanted a slogan at people trying to park on the roundabout on Monday afternoon (October 1).

The safety-conscious pupils took action after the school’s repeated requests to parents to avoid parking on the roundabout were ignored.

They chanted “park smart, stay safe, park in the right place!” at drivers approaching the roundabout – who quickly drove off to find a safer parking spot.

Year 6 pupil Layla said: “At the roundabout near our school, there are a lot of cars parking there – and if fire engines or ambulances need to get to school due to a fire or a really bad accident, they will not be able to, because the cars are blocking it.”

Barnet Council put bollards on the inside edge of the roundabout during the summer holidays in a bid to stop people parking there.

 

But people have continued to park on the outer edge of the roundabout, where there are no barriers.

The school wants the council to put yellow lines around the outer edge of the roundabout to make it safe.

Ariana, another Year 6 pupil, said: “The council put bollards round the roundabout. I feel like they should have not done it there but round the edges.”

Pupils pointed out that there are plenty of free parking spaces on side roads near the school, as well as two free car parks nearby.

Their teacher, Joanne Ehrenmark, said ambulances may need to attend the school to treat diabetic pupils and youngsters who suffer injuries at sports day.

Executive head teacher Andy Griffiths said: “I have communicated with parents on a regular basis and have had to field complaints from local residents regarding inappropriate and inconsiderate parking.

“This current situation is particularly frustrating as it has the potential to put our children at significant risk.

 

“We have deliberately involved our children in this latest campaign in order to further emphasise our plight.

“I am hoping this will finally get results, and that our children can be safe in and around our school.”

A council spokesman said: “The council is aware of the parking issues relating to Brunswick Park School.

“Earlier this year the council installed a number of posts to deter parking on the roundabout in the service road and we are already examining the possibility of putting in place yellow lines to further address this issue and ensure the road is kept clear.

“At the same time, all schools are encouraged to have their own individual travel plans with the aim of reducing car use, promoting walking, cycling and the use of public transport for pupils, their families and staff.”