PARENTS are being urged to ‘behave responsibly’ after reports of chaotic parking at an Accrington primary school.

Residents near St Oswald’s RC Primary in Hartley Avenue have complained of vehicles parked dangerously on grass verges and the road becoming impassable at peak times.

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Images taken recently show cars double-parked in nearby Broadfield Avenue and others almost blocking the pavement.

Since the start of the school term in September, there have been two road accidents involving cars knocking over children in surrounding streets, and another recent near miss.

A spokesman for the school said they had introduced a number of measures to try to improve the parking situation and were mindful of the concerns of nearby residents.

She added: “We have tried to mitigate the problems and stagger drop-off and pick-up times by having a breakfast club from 8am each morning and running several after-school clubs which continue after 3pm.

“We have to differentiate between what can be seen as irresponsible parking and dangerous parking.

“If we feel that a vehicle has been left dangerously, we would not hesitate to contact the police. We’ve sent letters out to parents and it seems to work for a few days before slipping back.” The school is also keen to take practical measures. The spokesman added: “Next week the school will meet with the county council’s safer travel team to discuss improvements to the crossing near the school.

“We’re suggesting they put down a different coloured road surface at the crossing to make it more evident.

“We are also holding a road safety day for all pupils in the next fortnight where lessons will be themed around keeping safe on the roads.”

Lancashire County Councillor, Peter Britcliffe, said: “Parking issues around schools is a huge problem in the borough. It’s a difficult problem to solve.”