Dorset Council has confirmed it will end the school crossing patrol in Ferndown, maintaining that new zebra crossings on Church Road provide safe crossing points at all times.
The council’s decision follows a 1,150-signature petition and repeated questions at a full council meeting, but officials insist the new crossings and other road improvements mean there is no longer a need for lollipop lady Sarah Middleton, who has held the role for 18 months.
he has been told she will not return in September. Councillor Mike Parkes challenged the administration, questioning whether a safety assessment had been carried out, and said he would pursue the matter with the Information Commissioner.
Fellow ward councillor Cathy Lugg criticised the council, suggesting it cared more about cats than children after a separate motion about reporting cats involved in road accidents was passed.
Councillor Jon Andrews stated the decision was not about saving money, explaining that council policy avoids school crossing patrols on zebra crossings to prevent driver confusion.
He added that enforcement officers would increase their presence in the area and that a mobile number plate recognition camera could be used in future to address poor parking.
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