Parents Condemn Council Decision to Remove School Crossing Patrol
Parents in Dorset have expressed outrage after the local council banned a beloved lollipop lady from her post outside a primary school, arguing that her presence could confuse drivers and create an unsafe environment. The controversial decision by Dorset Council has been met with widespread condemnation from families who rely on the crossing patrol for their children's safety.
Four Years of Service Abruptly Ended
Lauren Cannon has served as the dedicated lollipop lady at Lytchett Matravers Primary School for four years, diligently supervising children as they cross the busy 30mph road. However, following the installation of a zebra crossing in 2025, council officials determined that a formal crossing patrol was no longer necessary.
The local parish council, concerned about the road being used as a dangerous rat-run, offered to fund Ms Cannon's £7,000 annual salary to keep her in position. Despite this generous offer, Dorset Council officials overruled the proposal, stating that Ms Cannon's continued presence at the crossing could confuse drivers and render the situation unsafe.
Parental Fury Over Safety Concerns
Parents have described the council's stance as shocking and disgusting, pointing out that motorists frequently disregard the speed limit and fail to stop for pedestrians waiting at the new zebra crossing. Many argue that drivers are more likely to stop for a visible lollipop lady in high-visibility clothing than for painted road markings alone.
Mum Zoe Rawlings, whose child attends the school's reception year, stated: "It's a dangerous road. They go so fast and don't even seem to see people waiting to cross, but they are more likely to stop for the lollipop lady. That's why I am fighting this - it's a ridiculous idea."
She added a stark warning: "If they get rid of Lauren there will be an accident. A child was knocked over just past the school last year. Removing one of the most effective safety measures will put children and parents at greater risk."
Vital Support for Vulnerable Children
The situation is particularly concerning for families with children who have additional needs. Charlotte Wingfield, whose seven-year-old daughter Brooklyn-Mai is visually impaired, emphasized the lollipop lady's vital role in helping her daughter cross the road safely.
"Lauren isn't just our lollipop lady, she's a pillar of the community," Miss Wingfield explained. "Brooklyn-Mai's vision is very low so she's sometimes unable to tell if a car has actually stopped at the crossing or not. I think it's really disgusting that Dorset Council have done this and I'm worried for my daughter."
She noted that there are other visually impaired children at the school, and the council's own vision support service regularly visits the premises, making them aware of the road's dangers.
Council Policy Changes Spark Controversy
A spokesperson for Lytchett Matravers Parish Council expressed disappointment at the decision, revealing that Dorset Council has implemented a new policy prohibiting school crossing patrols on zebra crossings. This means that even if the parish council wanted to employ Ms Cannon directly, they would no longer be permitted to do so.
The parish council spokesperson stated: "Dorset Council states that this is considered unsafe, as it may cause confusion between the authority of the School Crossing Patrol and the legal regulations of the crossing. We had already committed to funding the SCP for an additional year to continue supporting the safety of children."
Dorset Council defended its position, with a spokesperson explaining: "Dorset Council has updated its School Crossing Patrol policy to improve safety and to reflect recent investment in new permanent pedestrian crossing facilities. Our priority is to help children and families travel safely. Updating the policy ensures that crossing arrangements remain clear, consistent and supportive for everyone who uses our roads."
Community Support and Ongoing Discussions
Matt Vernon, head of Lytchett Matravers Primary School, praised Lauren Cannon for her excellent work keeping pupils safe over the years. "She has not only kept them safe but also supported them to come into school positively through her warm and welcoming nature," he said.
The school has expressed support for the parish council's proposal to finance the road crossing patrol, and discussions between the parish council and Dorset Council are reportedly ongoing. Parents and community members remain hopeful that a compromise can be reached to maintain this vital safety measure for children traveling to and from school.
Emily Luckie, another concerned parent, summarized the community's frustration: "This just makes no sense. How is it deemed not safe to have a lollipop lady or confusing? If a driver is confused by the presence of a lollipop lady then they shouldn't be on the road. Absolutely shocking decision by Dorset Council."
