Concerns raised over removal of school crossing patrol in Lytchett Matravers

Concerns are being raised amid Dorset Council's decision to remove the school crossing patrol outside Lytchett Matravers Primary School.

The council stopped funding the lollipop patrol in 2025 following the installation of a zebra crossing.

'Very disappointed'

Since September, Lytchett Matravers Parish Council had been paying for the patrol, but Dorset Council's updated policy no longer allows patrols on zebra crossings.

They said: "The Parish Council has recently been informed by Dorset Council that, under new formal policy, School Crossing Patrols (SCPs) can no longer be positioned on zebra crossings. Dorset Council states that this is considered unsafe, as it may cause confusion between the authority of the SCP and the legal regulations of the crossing.

"Dorset Council state that the current SCP contract will continue until the end of March 2026, giving families and the school time to adjust. While zebra crossings remain an effective way for children to cross the road safely, Dorset Council reminds parents and carers that responsibility for a child’s safety on their journey to school ultimately rests with them.

"The Parish Council is very disappointed with this decision. We had already committed to funding the SCP for an additional year to continue supporting the safety of children on their journey to and from school.

"Unfortunately, due to this new policy, it means that School Crossing Patrols are no longer allowed on zebra crossings, so even if we wanted to employ her directly, a lollipop lady is not allowed here any longer.

"We understand this change may be unsettling, and we will continue to work with the school and Dorset Council to promote safe routes to school."

'We have invested in new permanent crossings'

A spokesperson from Dorset Council said the policy update aims to enhance safety and align with recent investments in pedestrian crossing facilities.

"Dorset Council has updated its School Crossing Patrol (SCP) policy to improve safety and to reflect recent investment in new permanent pedestrian crossing facilities at a small number of its 28 active patrol locations," the spokesperson told us.

"We have invested in new permanent crossings that are designed not only to support school communities but also to provide safer places for the wider public to cross throughout the day.

"To ensure the safest possible arrangements, we are reviewing these sites and working closely with stakeholders to support a safe transition from the current patrols to the new permanent crossings.

"SCPs will continue at sites without formal crossings where they meet our policy guidance.

"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."

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