Police are to take enforcement action against drivers speeding past an Angus primary school.
Concerned parents of children at Northmuir Primary in Kirriemuir called police after witnessing motorists tearing down the Roods and Shielhill Road.
The reports were confirmed by the force’s road policing unit, which said drivers have now been given “fair warning” and could be facing penalty points, a fine or even the loss of their licence.
Head teacher Paula Wharton said the safety of children was of paramount importance to the school.
She added: “This has been an issue for parents for many years. It is raised regularly at parent council meetings.
“The school issues reminders about responsible driving through letters and the school newsletter. We are training P6 children to ride their bikes safely, but conscious of the dangers that the children face as they cycle to school.
“As a school community we are all very concerned for the safety of children within the vicinity of the school.”
Kirriemuir Community Council has been made aware of the issue by a parent.
Acting secretary Cathy Stephenson summarised the group’s latest minutes, saying: “Concerns were raised to the Community Council about traffic speeding in the area of Northmuir Primary School, in particular at the end of the school day.
“There was discussion of whether the current flashing 20mph school signs were having any impact, with a view that unless uniformed police were present they are often ignored.
“Not everyone agreed that it was in fact a speeding issue, but an issue arising from parents parking in the vicinity of the school when collecting their children.”
In 2008, Kirriemuir woman Janet Wilson launched a petition for traffic calming measures on the Roods after her cat was run over however, the online document attracted just 65 signatures.
Having lived on the street for nearly 20 years she said she fears for the safety of children crossing the road.
Tayside Police warned that a child struck by a vehicle at 40 miles per hour will almost certainly be killed, while at 20 miles per hour they will most likely survive.
A spokeswoman said: “Drivers should always reduce their speeds in response to where they are and what is around them at the time.
“This is never more important than when they are on roads where children are making their way to or from school. When at or near to schools drivers should slow down, observe the speed limits and pay attention.
“If they are parking to drop off or pick up then they should choose their parking spot carefully, preferably a distance away from the school itself.
“Do not park on the zig zag lines outside the school entrance and be careful not to block driveways or other driver’s views of the road, particularly when parking near to junctions.
“Furthermore all pupils and parents should ensure that they cross with care. Responsible behaviour on everyone’s part can help make sure that avoidable accidents, and the trauma and heartbreak that goes with them, are avoided.”