PLANS have been tabled for a new pedestrian gate at a Hampshire primary school, which will make it safer for parents and children during drop-off and pick-up times.

Located in Knapp Lane, Ampfield Primary School has applied to install the gate at the bottom of its playground – which sits near the town’s war memorial, as there is no pavement that leads to the school front door.

Education chiefs say that as the school has no formal car park, many vehicles park on the side of the lane which would normally be used by pedestrians, meaning parents and children are forced to park further away and walk into road.

No cash figure has been put on the gate, which will be paid for by Hampshire County Council out of its already allocated budget.

A fixed-bench will need to be removed to allow for the new entrance.

The application is currently being reviewed by the authority’s planning team, with public views being sought until February 20.

Ampfield Parish Council pledged its support for the scheme at its planning meeting on January 28.

The application noted: “The gate is to be provided to reduce the need for walking in the road, as there are no pavements towards the main school entrance, therefore reducing the risk of car related incidents.”

To have your say, email planning@hants.gov.uk, citing reference 19971.