St John’s appeal forsafer school streets

Pupils at St John’s Primary School, Coleraine, met Mayor George Duddy, in one of his last official engagements as Mayor, and Stephanie Quigley to present them with their manifesto for safer streets.

The school took part in a national project led by charity Sustrans by exploring the streets around their school and suggesting ways of making their area safer and greener.

The children’s manifesto was created after they launched their own investigation into traffic speeds and the other reasons they can’t walk, cycle and scoot to school.

Sustrans is working with pupils across the country, helping them transform their neighbourhoods and go green. The charity is aiming to make 20mph speed limits compulsory in areas where people live, work, socialise and play.

Year 3  pupils from St John's and Killowen primary schools taking part in a cross community project entitled 'On The Other Side Of The River'.Year 3  pupils from St John's and Killowen primary schools taking part in a cross community project entitled 'On The Other Side Of The River'.
Year 3 pupils from St John's and Killowen primary schools taking part in a cross community project entitled 'On The Other Side Of The River'.

Headmaster Kieran O’Neill said: ”We want a school environment where children are able to play freely outdoors, and travel to school in ways that are good for their health and for the environment.

“The children have been keen to investigate the traffic problems in the local area and are excited about the opportunity to really make a difference.

“Being able to play outside and walk or cycle to school makes kids healthier, happier and better learners.”