Neon signs are to be introduced outside schools in Kirklees to warn drivers to reduce their speed.

The radar signs, which will flash "SLOW DOWN" to vehicles breaking speed limits, are to be tested this autumn and could replace standard metal signs which warn motorists approaching a school or crossing patrol.

The initiative is part of a package of measures set to be introduced for the new school year in autumn to improve road safety.

They include the dropping of speed limits to 30mph outside all Kirklees schools and introducing tougher rules to stop parents parking outside school gates. Highways officer Peter Salmon said: "The signs will work like a speed camera and we hope they will shock motorists into hitting the brakes.

"We will have eight on trial and if they are successful they will be introduced to complement school crossings," he said.

"We have gained extra powers from the Government regarding speed limits and parking controls.

"The Council is putting them into force for the next school year.

"We get a lot of complaints about parents parking outside school gates but we weren't able to enforce a rule to stop them."

The authority is to consult with the public and motoring organisations, including the AA and RAC, this summer regarding plans to reduce speeds outside 12 schools which are served by roads with limits of more than 30mph.

Colin Taylor, head teacher of Hartshead Special School in Halifax Road, Cleckheaton, which currently has a 60mph speed limit, said a reduced limit would improve safety for children arriving and leaving the school in minibuses.

He said: "I've always had my heart in my mouth about the road. Cars often go faster than 60mph past the school.

"It's difficult for vehicles to get in and out and there have been some near misses."

Under the plan the limit outside Birkenshaw Middle School in Bradford Road, Birkenshaw would also be dropped - from 40 to 30mph.

And 26 schools, including Cawley Lane in Heckmondwike, West End Middle and Heaton Avenue in Cleckheaton and East Bierley CofE in East Bierley, are to take part in the trial to stop parents stopping or parking on white zig-zag lines at school gates.

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