There are various reasons behind this approach. For example, the issue had been on the council’s agenda for some time, and several schools had requested clearer school zones. A school zone usually covers a radius of 100 metres around the entrance to a school; within this zone, the current traffic regulations, speed limits and parking arrangements remain unchanged. A number of schools already have a school zone. The council has now made a conscious decision to adopt a single, recognisable and uniform design throughout Apeldoorn. The road markings, signage and positioning in relation to the school building comply with the national CROW guidelines, ensuring that school zones are consistent and recognisable everywhere.
Digital focus on school zones too
Technological developments also play a part. Navigation systems are becoming increasingly adept at recognising school zones and alerting drivers when they are approaching one. In this way, road users are made aware of the school environment both through their surroundings and digitally. This increases awareness of road safety at times when children are travelling to and from school.
Work during the summer period
A contractor will be carrying out work in phases across Apeldoorn between 6 July and 28 August. The work is largely scheduled to take place during the summer holidays, so as to minimise disruption to schools as much as possible.
The work is broadly scheduled as follows:
- Apeldoorn East – Weeks 28 to 30
- Apeldoorn West – Weeks 28 to 31
- Apeldoorn South – Weeks 29 & 33 to 35
- Apeldoorn North – Weeks 33 to 35
Unfortunately, it is not possible to give the exact date of completion for each school in advance, as the schedule depends on factors such as weather conditions and the progress of the work.
Minor disruption during the works
The road will remain open at all times, as work will be carried out on one carriageway at a time where necessary. However, there may be some temporary disruption during the works, such as:
- temporary road closures (or closures of part of the road)
- minor delays to traffic
Schools and local residents are being kept informed
Schools have already received a letter about the works. Residents living near primary schools will receive a letter from the contractor with further information no later than two weeks before the works begin.
