Swift action to make path safer for pupils

5.41.00pm GMT Wed 28th Feb 2007

Swift action from Cllr Sara Bedford will help to remove a danger spot for pupils walking home from Parmiter's School along High Elms Lane. Sara was contacted by Parmiter's' Headteacher Brian Coulshed, after two Year 11 pupils were robbed at knifepoint on Monday afternoon in broad daylight. The attackers were able to hide behind a high hedge between the pavement and the road and lie in wait. The attack was witnessed by a number of younger children, who understandably understandably upset by what they had seen. This is not the first time in recent years that pupils have been attacked at this spot.

Although the County Council were not keen to act, citing the cost of work needed, Three Rivers agreed to find the cost of carrying out work to trim the hedge, making it far more difficult for potential attackers to lurk unseen. A site meeting has now taken place, to ensure that the work can be carried out safely, and that as much hedge as possible is retained.

Sara Said, "This is an attractive hedge, which undoubtedly adds character to the lane. However this is a route home for pupils of both Parmiter's and St. Michael's schools. If we want children to walk to and from school, we owe it to them to make that route as safe as possible".