Drivers reported to police in crackdown on parking outside Horsham school

Cars frequently stop on the zig-zag lines outside Kingslea Primary School during school drop off and pick-up times.

There have also been complaints from nearby residents that their access routes are blocked and fears that emergency service vehicles could not get past.

Horsham District Council’s neighbourhood wardens and civil enforcement officers carried out a week of action at the school last week.

A council spokeswoman said the move was aimed at encouraging drivers “to be more considerate of other road users and pedestrians and to make safer parking choices.”

She added: “No fines were issued during the week but a number of reports were made to Sussex Police’s Operation Crackdown for drivers seen stopping on the zig zag lines outside of the school to set down or pick up passengers.

“As a result, the police have sent letters to the owners of the vehicles.

“Cars parking on junctions or obstructing passing vehicles was also frequently observed.

“This type of parking may only be for a short amount of time, but it can never be predicted when an emergency might happen and the emergency services may need to gain access.

“To highlight the importance of keeping roads clear, firefighters from Horsham Fire Station also visited the area with a fire engine to demonstrate how difficult inconsiderate or obstructive parking can be.

“Many parents of Kingslea Primary School engaged with the wardens and civil enforcement officers over the week.

“Parents with buggies and prams felt safer for not having to walk in the road to pass cars parked on the pavement.

“Going forward, drivers are encouraged to take a moment when parking to consider other road users and pedestrians and whether safer choices could be made.

“Often there is on-road parking available just a short walk from schools, which not only can help to reduce congestion, but also has health benefits and could make the difference in an emergency.”