NSW Government Boosting Safety Around St George Schools

Mr Mark Coure said the NSW Government is improving safety for school children with a boost to pedestrian safety infrastructure.

Mr Coure said the improvements are part of a $5 million investment across 135 schools in NSW to help make it safer for children walking near their school.

“We all have a role to play when it comes to pedestrian safety, particularly when it comes to the safety around schools,” Mr Coure said.

“Peakhurst West Public School and Beverly Hills Girls High School students will be a little safer thanks to the fact the St George community is sharing in this funding.”

Pedestrian safety work to be carried out at Peakhurst West Public Schools includes a raised crossing and at Beverly Hills High School includes new fencing.

Mr Coure said there has been an increase in pedestrian fatalities across the state.

“The NSW Government launched the Look Out Before You Step Out campaign earlier this year to raise awareness of the dangers we face as pedestrians.

“Roads and children can be a dangerous mix, which is why we are investing in making school zones as safe as possible to reduce the risk of tragedy.”

“School children are some of the most vulnerable people using the road, which is why we have targeted safety programs such as school zone flashing lights, pedestrian crossings and fencing to keep children safe going to and from school,” Mr Coure said.

“We can all play our part in helping move the road toll toward zero by sticking to school zone speed limits and constantly keeping an eye out for children who might run out onto the road unexpectedly.”

The number of pedestrian deaths in NSW so far this year stands at 61, which is 8 more than the same time last year.

The NSW Government is providing funding to local councils, which will be responsible for rolling out the projects over the next two financial years.