A DATE has finally been agreed for changes to begin on a busy road in Haydon Wick to implement a school safety zone for Greenmeadow Primary School.

The work to create the safety zone will begin on Sunday, October 21, and the road will be closed along Thames Avenue in the vicinity of Pen Close between October 26 and November 4.

All residents living in the area will receive a letter notifying them of the scheme, which is expected to last four weeks.

The need for change has come about following the expansion of pupil numbers at Greenmeadow School, in Pen Close, last September.

Swindon Council’s planning committee agreed to put aside money to introduce the school safety zone and residents were asked for their views.

Coun David Renard, (Con, Haydon Wick) said: “Coun Rex Barnett and I have been working closely with residents, the school and the council over many months to deliver a scheme that will provide a safer route to school for the children and improve road safety and traffic flows.

“We are delighted that this work is now coming to fruition.

“I think all schools have their challenges around the start and end of the school day and Greenmeadow is certainly no different.

“It is a school in a cul-de-sac and we encourage parents to park their cars at the Shield and Dagger pub and then walk to the school, but not everybody does that.

“Some may not be able to, so we need to make sure it is as safe as possible.”

The scheme includes the removal of the build out west of Pen Close, the removal of priority working west of Pen Close, the implementation of a raised table with buff surfacing, an informal crossing point, school safety signage with flashing ambers and landscaping. The post and signs for the scheme will be installed in February.

The road closure has been agreed with Streetworks, and the diversion route for bus companies and HGV’s is currently being finalised.

Access for residents and for the school, including teachers during half-term, will be maintained.

However, there may be delays depending on the construction activity being undertaken.

Project manager Sam Turner said: “This work is required as a priority, and as such the half-term school holidays in October provide the perfect opportunity to progress while the area is significantly quieter.”

For further information call 01793 463725.