Cameras monitoring school dropouts on Coventry roads ‘good idea if it works’

Coventry Live readers discussed plans to install new cameras to enforce a ban on driving on school roads. If given the green light, these cameras would be operational by September, coinciding with the introduction of new restrictions at four schools in the city.

The restrictions currently in place have not been successful, due to poor enforcement and many drivers not complying with the restrictions despite clear signs. The cameras would monitor “school streets,” barring vehicle access during weekday drop-off and pick-up times, with exceptions for residents and certain vehicles.

Camera-based road monitoring will begin in September, according to a council report. After a six-week period of monitoring and public consultation, officials will consider moving to enforcement, provided the evidence justifies such a move. Readers discussed how well these plans might work for parents and residents in our comments section.

Preflight review says: “When my son was younger I used to pick him up from school in my car and then continue to pick up my wife from work. So going by what these councils are doing installing these cameras, I couldn’t do the same thing today. Today I would have to walk 2 miles to pick up my son, then turn around and then go over the same route to pick up my wife. I understand if you live around the corner and people use their cars, but for some it’s not about laziness.”

Greenplanet feels the same and points out: “If the promised primary schools were built, i.e. Bannerbrook, Allard Way, then children could walk to school. In Keresley we were told that a primary school was badly needed for the area, but now, according to a councillor, it is no longer needed as there are plenty of empty spaces for children in Coventry. The proof is that the three schools closest to the new development for 3,100 homes, with only one within walking distance, are all full with long waiting lists for September admissions. I agree that parking and traffic near schools should be banned, but if the Council creates a situation where parents’ allocated schools are too far away, they have no choice.”

Thailand15 thinks the scheme could go further: “How about installing cameras on Hawthorn Lane Tile Hill? It’s a nightmare at school, like everywhere, and in the past I had to walk down the road with a pram, as some woman swore at me. We also have the same problem in Nutbrook Avenue.” blueblue123 agrees: “One on Brays Lane for Sacred Heart School would be nice, the road is a massive cut with speeding traffic at all hours, the school course is chaotic.”

Mouse111 likes the scheme: “Finally something is being done to catch these idle drivers. In reality, every school needs them. Well done to the person who actually signed these cameras.” AndrewDrinkwater agrees: “Good idea, if it works, which makes a difference for this board, far too many schools allow cars, thinking parents can park where they want and even at crossings and double yellow parking etc.”

Lordgodiva responds though: “But local residents said the pilot had no effect and I see no evidence of success from the CCC…so a waste of limited resources to just carry on and hope for the best. A fundamental rethink with a better solution is needed.”

Hippy1 agrees: “I thought the council was short of cash, hence all the cuts, but they can find money for a scheme that hasn’t been a success. Yes, I agree with child safety, but get all your figurines etc. before jumping in and installing these cameras etc. How much will this cost to install I wonder? Will we know before it’s installed? I doubt it.”

Largie has the last word: “I’m all for saving someone’s life, I just don’t agree with the cameras. I would rather have a human being paid to control this situation.”

What do you think of cameras? Do you think they will make a positive difference? Tell us your thoughts in our comments section.