EXTRA road safety measures could be introduced outside a York primary school which has been left without a crossing patrol.

Officers at City of York Council have agreed to launch a public consultation over plans to force drivers to cut their speeds while passing Heworth Primary School and prevent motorists parking illegally near the site.

If no objections are raised, a blanket 20mph speed limit along the stretch of Heworth Road near the school would be introduced and a ban would placed on vehicles being left in sections which are supposed to be kept clear outside the building’s gates.

A York-wide shortage of lollipop men and women means the crossing patrol covering the school came to an end in June, and a report on the potential safety measures, compiled after discussions between the council’s executive member for city strategy, Coun Steve Galloway, and its assistant director for city development and transport, Richard Wood, said the changes could “benefit all road-users”.

Should the scheme be approved, no vehicles would be allowed to block the space outside the school between 8am and 9am or between 3pm and 4pm.

“The proposed scheme is to help reduce vehicle speeds, discourage inconsiderate parking and raise driver awareness of the school,” said the report.

“The school building is set back from the road and adjoining properties, which can make it difficult for approaching drivers to see. The school wants to be more noticeable in terms of speed of traffic.

“The police have raised concerns over signing and enforcement issues linked to a part-time speed limit. A full-time 20mph speed limit would be more reliable, easier to enforce and enhance safety throughout the school day.”

The plans also include installing vehicle-activated signs on Heworth Road informing drivers of the 20mph limit.