A new zebra crossing has been installed in Elton in response to calls for action from the local community to improve safety.

The new crossing will ‘save lives’, campaigners say.

It has been located opposite the pedestrian entrance to Elton Primary School and Nursery in a bid to encourage pupils, parents and carers to cross the road safely on their journey to and from school.

The position of the School Lane crossing, installed by Cheshire West and Chester Council, also benefits the wider community as it is located near to other local facilities such as Elton Community Centre, Elton Library, Elton Surgery, Elton park and playing fields.

Councillor Stephen Smith, Elton Ward (Labour), said: “I’m delighted to see we finally have a crossing which allows pupils and other residents to access school and other local facilities safely. I hope this will ease congestion around this area, reduce speeding and encourage more pupils to walk to school.”

Head teacher of Elton Primary School and Nursery Victoria Carr added: “Safety is always the primary concern for all head teachers and especially for children arriving at and leaving school. It is fantastic that all pedestrians, but particularly the pupils of Elton Primary School and Nursery, are now able to cross the road safely.”

Parent governor of Elton Primary School and Nursery and advocate of the project Helen Coy, also added: “This crossing will benefit not only our pupils of Elton Primary School but also all residents of Elton. It will help to slow down traffic on the road and also ease parking issues in the area.”

Parent governor of Elton Primary School and Nursery Helen Coy, councillor Stephen Smith, head teacher of Elton Primary School and Nursery Victoria Carr, PCSO Jake Connolly and chairman of Elton Parish Council Tony Mills

The initiative is an example local partnership work, engaging representatives from the local school, parish council, council, Cheshire Constabulary and local residents.

Chair of Elton Parish Council Tony Mills added: “This is a very positive improvement which has been needed for many years. It will undoubtedly save lives.”

PCSO for the Elton area Jake Connolly said: “The new zebra crossing is a fantastic new addition to the primary school as it relieves school parking issues but more importantly increases the safety of both children and parents.”