Every school morning and afternoon, our streets come alive with parents, carers and children on the move. Unfortunately, this busy period also brings a recurring issue: poor and unsafe parking around the school site. It is more than an inconvenience—it is a genuine safety concern that affects children, residents and the whole community.
Why Poor Parking Is a Problem
🚸 Risk to Children
When cars park on pavements, corners or the slip roads, children are forced into the road to pass. Sightlines become obstructed, making it harder for pedestrians and drivers alike to see each other.
🏡 Impact on Local Residents
Residents regularly report blocked driveways, limited access and cars idling outside their homes. This can be upsetting and disruptive.
🚗 Congestion & Stress
Unsafe parking contributes to traffic jams, road rage and overall chaos during drop-off and pick-up times. What should be a positive start to the day becomes stressful for everyone.
Our School Travel Plan
We are proud to have a School Travel Plan — a commitment that reflects the whole community’s desire to promote active, safe, and sustainable travel. But the success of the plan depends on all of us. All parents sign an agreement to adhere to the guidelines within the plan when their child joins Bedgrove Infant School.
Walking, cycling, and scooting—even a few days a week—reduce congestion and make the school environment safer and calmer for our children.
How to Report Dangerous or Illegal Parking
If you witness parking that is dangerous, obstructive or repeatedly ignoring road safety guidance, you can report it through non‑emergency police channels.
📞 Call 101 (UK)
Use this number for:
- Cars blocking pavements or driveways
- Vehicles parked on school zig‑zag markings
- Repeat offenders
- Situations where safety is at immediate risk but not an emergency
🌐 Report Online
Most UK police forces offer non‑emergency reporting through their website. Search:
“Thames Valley Police non‑emergency parking report”
and follow the online form.
🚨 For emergencies
If someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.
What We’re Asking From All Families
- Never park on yellow zig‑zags—they exist solely to protect children’s visibility.
- Avoid blocking pavements, junctions, or residents’ driveways.
- Consider parking a little further away and walking the last few minutes.
- Be patient and respectful—everyone wants to get their children to school safely.
Working Together for Safer Streets
We know mornings can be rushed, and it’s tempting to “just stop for a moment.” But those moments matter. Small changes in our habits make a huge difference to safety, the environment and our relationship with the local community.
Thank you for doing your part—and for helping keep our children safe.