RENEWED calls are being made for a 20mph zone to be created near an Otley primary school.

Residents and parents are concerned about the speed of traffic passing Ashfield Primary, which stands off the busy Weston Lane.

The local community is particularly worried about how fast motorists are driving past in the morning, when pupils are arriving, and at the end of the school day.

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) believes extending the 20mph limit that has already been introduced to much of the rest of Otley will help improve safety in the area.

He joined fellow ward councillor Sandy Lay (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) and Otley town councillor Sylvia Thomson (Lib Dem, Ashfield) for an hour of action outside the school on Friday.

The trio used a Speed Indicator Device (SID) to measure vehicle speeds and show approaching motorists how fast they were travelling.

They were pleased to find only one car travelling in excess of the current 30mph speed limit during the hour, but are convinced further action remains necessary.

Cllr Campbell said: "Parked cars, flashing yellow school lights and a crossing patrol person all seem to have contributed to slower-than-anticipated speeds, which in itself is pleasing.

"We suspect, however, that speeding is rife elsewhere in Weston Lane and on the estate in general, and we continue to press Leeds for the funding to introduce the town's last 20mph zone."

Cllr Thomson added: "As the former Weston Lane postmistress, I've been long concerned about speeds in and around the estate and its impact on safety.

"What was most interesting was actually seeing motorists’ behaviour change when they saw their speed on the SID.

"Nearly all slowed down, even though all but one were under the speed limit.

"This does not negate the need for a 20mph zone, though, and this school needs one to keep children safe."

Cllr Lay, meanwhile, said actions such as last week's were needed to gather evidence to convince the city council to provide the funding needed to make Ashfield and the Weston estate area a 20mph zone.

An online petition was started earlier this year by resident Gareth Dibble to have a 20mph limit and other traffic control measures introduced on the Weston Estate.

Mr Dibble, who is vice-president of Otley Lions, said at the time the changes were needed to improve safety in "a part of Otley that has so many young families".

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