By Hayley Robinson

hrobinson@thekmgroup.co.uk

Walking to school will be a lot safer for youngsters living in one village when they return to the classroom following the summer break.

Workmen from Kent County Council's Highway Services began work last week on creating a new crossing point outside Iwade Community Primary School, in School Lane, as well as new 'school keep clear' markings on the road.

The work has been funded by county councillor Mike Whiting from his members' highway fund following a request last year from Iwade Parish Council.

At the same time work was also due to start at the junction of School Lane and Ferry Road to provide a 'T' junction with priority for traffic travelling along Ferry Road.

The road improvement scheme was agreed to following a public consultation.

It is hoped both schemes will be completed within three weeks.

Motorists are warned there may be delays as temporary traffic lights and/or stop/go boards will be used while the work is carried out.

The bus stop will also be relocated for the duration of the works.

Mr Whiting said: "A new drop kerb is being created close to the school entrance and road markings laid down because the school moved the entrance 50 odd yards to the east leaving the old crossing and markings in the wrong place.

"I am delighted these works are finally getting under way and that by doing them at the same time, ratepayers will get best value for money.

"The aim of these works is to improve road safety in the village, particularly around the school entrance during school 'rush hours' and I look forward to them being completed before the new term starts in September.

"Without money from the Members' Highway Fund it is unlikely that the school entrance works would have been done, so I was pleased to be able to respond to the request from Iwade Parish Council, and provide the money to get the job done."