Parking outside schools

How to park safely

You can help by doing the following:

• park away from school gates to reduce congestion
• keep clear of zig zags, school entrances, dropped kerbs, junctions and residents' driveways
• stop for a school crossing patrol when asked
• don't park on pavements in a way which stops pedestrians, disabled users or parents with prams/pushchairs from using the pavement
• don't park on corners - this will make sure our children can see cars and drivers can see our children
• don't stop on school 'keep clear' markings or safer crossing place
• don't block a road which could prevent emergency vehicle access
• don't stop in the middle of the road to drop your child off - this makes it dangerous for children

Travel to school a different way

Why don't you try walking or cycling to school?  It is beneficial for you and your children as it helps to keep them healthy, develops their road safety skills and reduces traffic outside of school at the beginning and end of the school day, which creates a safer and better environment for us all. 

You could also consider:

• parking away from school and walking the rest of the way
• setting up a walking bus with other parents/carers and the school
• car-sharing
• using public transport

The start and end of the school day can be hectic with the school run, but safety around schools has to come first.

We are working with our schools, Durham Constabulary, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue and our Civil Parking Enforcement Officers to ensure parents and carers think carefully about how to park at school drop off and pick ups.

We have a resource pack available to schools to help with encouraging safer school gate parking messages, contact us for more information.