Cameras monitoring school drop-offs on Coventry roads 'good idea if it works'

Coventry Live readers have been discussing plans for the installation of new cameras to enforce a driving ban around school roads. If given the green light, these cameras would be operational by September, coinciding with the introduction of new restrictions at four city schools.

Restrictions currently in place have not been successful, due to low enforcement and many drivers are not following the restrictions despite clear signs. The cameras would oversee 'school streets,' prohibiting vehicle access during weekday drop-off and pick-up hours, with exceptions for residents and certain vehicles.

According to a council report, camera-based road monitoring is set to commence in September. After a six-week period of monitoring and public consultation, officials will consider transitioning to enforcement, provided that the evidence justifies such a move. Readers have been discussing how well these plans might work for parents and residents in our comments section.

Commenter Preflight says: “When my son was younger I used to pick him up from school in my car then continue to pick up my wife from work. So going by what these councils are doing by installing these cameras I wouldn't be able to do the same today. Today I'd have to walk 2 miles to pick up my son to then walk back to then drive past the exact same route to pick up my wife. I get it if you just live around the corner and people use their cars but for some it's not about laziness.”

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

Thailand15 thinks the scheme could go further: “What about installing cameras on Hawthorn Lane Tile Hill? It’s a nightmare at school times, they park all over the place and in the past I’ve had to walk on the road with a pushchair as some woman swore at me. Also we have the same problem in Nutbrook Avenue.” blueblue123 agrees: “One on Brays Lane for Sacred Heart School would be good, the road is a massive cut through with speeding traffic all hours, the school run is chaotic.”

Mouse111 likes the scheme: “At long last something is being done to catch these bone idle motorists. In reality every school needs these. Well done to the person who actually signed these cameras off.” AndrewDrinkwater agrees: “Good idea if it works tbf which makes a change for this council, far too many schools are allowing cars, thinking parents can park where they like and even on crossings and parking on double yellows etc.”

lordgodiva replies however: “But the local residents have reported to say the pilot has had no effect and I can’t see any evidence of success from CCC … so a misguided waste of scarce resources to just carry on regardless and hope for the best. A fundamental rethink with a better solution is needed.”

Hippy1 agrees: “I thought the council were cash-strapped hence all the cuts, but they can find money for a scheme that has not been a success. Yes I agree with the safety of children but get all your figures etc right before jumping in and installing these cameras etc. How much is this going to cost I wonder to install? Are we going to know before it is installed? I doubt it.”

Largie has the final word: “I absolutely agree on saving anyone’s life, I just disagree with cameras. I would much rather a human being be paid to police this situation.”

How do you feel about the cameras? Do you think they will make a positive difference? Let us know your thoughts in our comments section.