EFFORTS to improve road safety near a Wee County early learning centre have been criticised for not going far enough.

The 20mph speed limit, recently brought down from 30mph, is in place on the A908 Main Street in Sauchie, which runs near their ELC.

Calls had been made for its introduction in a bid to alert drivers that they should proceed carefully where young children may be present.

As reported by the Advertiser in February, concerned parents had complained to the council that the speed limit was too high and that accidents were likely to happen.

Claire Williams had explained that vehicles, in particular heavy goods vehicles, would speed down the road, putting the lives of passing children and parents at risks.

While she is happy to see the council taking steps to address the issue, she fears that this is not going far enough to stop speeding drivers.

“It’s good that it’s been brought down to 20mph,” she said. “The vehicles still aren’t slowing down though, they’re still driving at 30mph.

“I think a set of traffic lights would be more beneficial as people are still driving at 30mph so this would make them stop.

“The flashing 20mph lights in a school zone would be beneficial as well but I’m glad something has started to get done about it now.”

The children at Sauchie ELC have been consulted about the speed limit, making their concerns known to community police officer PC Grant Smith.

PC Smith visited the school to see the posters made by the children and also to use a speed gun on the road outside.

As part of their study into the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the Sauchie ELC pupils have been discussing road safety and how to protect themselves from harm.

Road safety is made a priority at the school, with an emphasis placed on how to cross the road safely when out on walks.

A post published on the Clackmannanshire Council Facebook page announced the speed limit change.

It added: “The council would like to remind motorists to take extra care near all of our ELCs and schools and to remember the Highway Code.

“When approaching zebra crossings, you must stop if anyone is waiting to cross.

“Motorists are also reminded that police checks do take place in the area. Any motorist caught breaking the law will be dealt with robustly and could potentially face a court appearance.”