A COUNCILLOR is calling for traffic calming measures outside what he calls “the forgotten school of Bournemouth”.

Christ the King school in Durdells Aveune, Kinson benefits from no road safety features at all, despite the fact it is exceptionally busy at school drop-off and pick-up times.

It is set to permanently double in size by September 2014 and residents are concerned this will exacerbate existing traffic problems. They say their driveways are frequently blocked by inconsiderate parents and claim the road cannot take any extra traffic.

Cllr Dennis Gritt, who represents Kinson North, said: “I’ve long been concerned about the lack of safety in the vicinity of Durdells Avenue.

“We don’t have a lollipop person, we don’t have a pedestrian crossing, we don’t have a 20 mph speed limits. It’s almost like the forgotten school of Bournemouth.

“Some of the residents get very annoyed at people parking outside their houses, making it difficult to get out and with the extra pupils, it’s going to get even worse.

“We’ve been promised a review in the autumn and I hope they will consider ways of improving the situation.”

Neil Goddard, the council’s service director for community learning and commissioning, said: “We have carried out a public consultation at the school with regard to the school expansion and impact on traffic to discuss and understand any concerns local residents may have.

“We will also continue to support the school in developing their school travel plan to encourage parents and children to use sustainable travel where possible.”

And Claire Elkins, road safety project officer, said: “We are aware of the planned expansion of Christ the King School and concerns regarding increased traffic in the area and possible impact on road safety.

“We will continue to monitor traffic movements in Durdells Avenue.

“We will also consider any anticipated transport improvements as part of the associated planning application process.”