TRIALS to cut drivers’ speed outside five East Lancashire schools have been given the go-ahead.

Vehicles will be restricted to just 20mph outside the pilot schools at peak times as part of a countywide bid to slow down motorists.

The five schools are:

  • Burnley: Sir John Thursby Community College
  • Hyndburn: Altham Primary
  • Pendle: Blacko Primary
  • Ribble Valley: Gisburn Primary
  • Rossendale: Stubbins Primary

Abbey Village Primary, near Chorley, is also part of the trial.

Jo Greenwood, the county council’s environment director, said the signs would concide with the start and end of the school day.

She said: “Discussions with the Department for Transport regarding time variable 20mph speed limits at schools, located outside the main residential areas, have now reached a conclusion.

“Full agreement in principle has now been reached as to how this can be achieved in Lancashire.”

Under the same package six further areas have been selected for the county’s ‘Healthy Streets' initiative.

This programme will give extra assistance to smooth over the arrival of 20mph zones, ironing out potential conflicts between motorists and residents.

Part of Great Harwood, north Clitheroe, central Colne, south west Burnley, Euxton and Helmshore are the identified districts for the scheme.

The plans were reviewed and approved by County Councillor Tim Ashton, highways cabinet member, subject to them being ‘called-in’ by the scrutiny committee.