Head defends road's closure

CONDUIT Street has been closed temporarily during peak school hours since February

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THE head of a primary school has insisted closing a "dangerous" road close to his school was necessary for pupils' safety.

Conduit Street, off Ripponden Road, Oldham, has been closed temporarily during peak school hours since February, as motorists were deemed to be putting children attending Hodge Clough Primary School at risk.

A man who lives in Ripponden Road contacted the Chronicle to complain about the traffic situation as a result of the closure.

He claimed that Ripponden Road is backed up with traffic during school times and wanted to know for how long the road would be closed.

Head teacher Neil Cavanah said that the road had to be closed off because it was becoming so busy in the morning.

He said: "We have got young children walking down that road ­- safety is my first concern. We had to do something about it. It was becoming dangerous. Prior to it all we informed all the residents, including businesses. We said we will monitor the situation and if you have any complaints or issues then contact the school.

"The road was very busy in the morning and at pick-up times. It's improved the safety."

Councillor Fida Hussain, cabinet member for environmental services, said: "The council was contacted by the head teacher of Hodge Clough Primary School and parents after they became concerned that motorists using Conduit Street were putting children at risk with their irresponsible driving and parking.

Dangerous

"If we had ignored their pleas then we would have been failing them as the safety of the children is our priority.

"Motorists on Ripponden Road were also having to contend with dangerous reversing manoeuvres undertaken by motorists as they attempted to leave Conduit Street.

"Officers visited the site and due to the unusual access arrangements to the school grounds felt that closing it temporarily to traffic at school arrival and departure times would help the situation. This decision was made following talks with the police, residents who use the street for access and councillors.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation and will take the views of residents into account before making any final decision."