SBcContracts, part of Scottish Borders Council, has installed new safety measures outside Galashiels Academy and the adjacent St Margaret's RC Primary School in time for the start of the new school session.

Colourful pencil-shaped bollards have been installed at the edge of the pavements in a bid to tackle concerns about drivers parking on pavements in that area. Designed by SBC and manufactured by Marshall's Street Furniture, the bollards aim to help make it clear that it is a school area where people need to drive slowly, park safely and watch out for children.

Executive Member for Education, Councillor Catriona Bhatia said: "The bollards will stop people parking on the pavements, reduce congestion and make the pavements safer for children and other pedestrians. Galashiels Swimming Pool has also agreed to allow their car park to be used as a 'park and stride' location for pupils being dropped and collected at both schools, which will also make a huge difference."

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The council has been working with a number of schools across the Borders on Safer Routes to School projects and School Travel Plans. This involves reviewing all aspects of children travelling to school including how they get to school, pedestrian safety around the school area and improving the local environment for everyone including the children and local residents. Action plans will be agreed with the whole school community.

Councillor Jim Fullarton, Executive Member for Roads and Infrastructure added: "This is a positive step forward in addressing the concerns of parents and residents around St Margaret’s and Galashiels Academy. It is imperative that school children can safely walk along pavements around school areas. The creative design of the bollards is also a bit of fun for the children, but makes the point very clear that there is a school in the vicinity so drivers should be extra vigilant."

(GK/JM)