Dartford Borough Council is launching its School Safety Patrol car on Monday 18 January 2016 to help to improve safety on the roads around local schools.
The car will be making an appearance at school start and finish times and use ANPR technology to gather evidence of cars stopped on the ‘School Keep Clear’ zig-zag markings.
Penalties will be issued to drivers parking illegally – an offence that schools say can often put young lives at risk.
The Council’s Parking and Community Safety teams have already been out to showcase the car and talk to pupils, parents and teachers at a number of primary and secondary schools across the Borough.
Councillor Jeremy Kite, Leader of the Council, said, “We’re not generally in favour of camera cars but there are some circumstances where we simply can’t ignore the appalling danger a small number of people are creating.
“Safety around schools is hugely important and no-one wants to hear of a child being involved in an accident from trying to cross the road outside their school. The vast majority of people park considerately and safely, away from the zig-zags, but we must stop those who park irresponsibly and illegally, putting the lives of children at risk.”
For information about Kent’s campaign to change driving habits around schools visit www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/road-safety