STEPS to improve road safety for Norton schoolchildren have been approved by North Yorkshire County Council.

Plans to introduce a 20mph zone outside Norton Primary’s new satellite school in Langton Road were given the green light on Friday.

The speed change is likely to be introduced in January, along with an additional set of speed cushions and priority signage at the new build-outs.

Engineers are also looking at extending parking restrictions to help traffic flow, while protecting the vast majority of on-street parking spaces.

The move comes after a highways site visit organised by Norton county councillor Keane Duncan.

Cllr Duncan said: “Given the problems with traffic, particularly at peak times, I wanted highways officers to see for themselves exactly how the new traffic calming measures were working, and also to review potential improvements as soon as possible.”

He added: “After a long wait, it is very welcome news that the 20mph zone has finally been approved.

“After looking at traffic flows, the engineers are also proposing to extend the double yellow lines – but this would be by just two to three spaces opposite St Peter’s Church to allow traffic to pull in.

“This is a compromise solution that protects the vast majority of on-street parking spaces while creating a space for traffic to move into.

“There is already intense pressure on parking along Langton Road, and I am determined that any action by highways does not add to the problem.

“I can confirm there are no plans to remove on-street parking altogether.”

Cllr Duncan was joined for the site meeting by Norton Primary School head teacher Liz Parker, office manager Pauline Calvert, transport engineer James Kennedy and highways improvement manager Tim Coyne.

Norton Primary School’s new building, on the former Brooklyn site, opened in September and provides classes for 160 Year 5 and Year 6 pupils.

Mrs Parker said: “The adjustments approved by the county council identified will make a massive difference in protecting the safety of children on Langton Road.”

The existing 20mph zone will be extended by an additional 325m.

It will run from Sutton Street to The Ridings, where it will join with the existing 20mph zone outside Norton College.

A separate traffic regulation order would be required to formally extend the double yellow lines, with plans open to public consultation.