WORK is to start on safety improvements on a road used by children going to a York primary.

City of York Council is putting new safety measures along the route to Robert Wilkinson Primary School, including a vehicle activated sign warning drivers of people crossing near a humpback bridge over the Foss, and changes to a riverside path.

The changes were agreed last summer. Parents had petitioned for changes after a child was hurt in a road accident in 2014.

Executive member for transport and planning, Cllr Ian Gillies, said: “As we are encouraging people to travel in more sustainable ways through various campaigns, including Walk to School Week, it is vital we ensure that this can be done in a safe environment.

“This is an example of where we’ve listened to local residents concerns and are acting upon them to help make the area safer for everyone.”

The riverside path changes will stop people stepping straight out into the road, and are designed to guide people to a safer crossing away from the bridge. Work will take place next week, from Monday, March 13 to Friday, March 17.

Temporary traffic lights will be in operation on both Monday and Friday, and motorists are warned to expect some delays to their journeys.

The contractor carrying out the work will be responsible for safety.