Council proposal to stop funding cost of employing school crossing patrols scrapped

Don Frain, a 'lollipop' man on Whitworth Road

The proposal by the Council to stop funding the cost of employing school crossing patrols has been scrapped.

There was an outcry when Rochdale Online revealed the proposal and the Council stood accused of forcing schools to choose between pupil safety or their quality of education.

• http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/105700/school-crossing-patrols-hit-out-at-council-proposals

However, significant opposition has forced the council to withdraw the proposal.

Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, Councillor Richard Farnell said: "I have always said school crossing patrols do a vital job in keeping young people safe and were never at risk.

"We simply wanted schools to help pay for the service. We asked schools if they were prepared to meet the cost but a significant number have refused.

"That means the proposal is withdrawn and the council will continue running and paying for the service. It was either all schools with a patrol shared the cost of the service or none at all."

"We said we would consult schools before making this change. We have listened and that is why this proposal is not going ahead.

"The Council has had to cut a total of £200million from its services since 2010 following savage reductions in our government grant. You can't cut this deep without making extremely difficult choices.

"However, the safety of our children is always paramount and we will continue to fund the crossing patrols and will look elsewhere for savings."