CALLS have been made for more measures to make a school crossing and drop-off point safer.

Blackburn councillors Konrad Tapp and Ashley Whalley said the creation of designated laybys for St Bede’s RC College buses in the main Green Lane entrance had narrowed the road and restricted visibility of a new zebra crossing.

The Meadowhead ward pair said the issue would only be properly addressed if the nearby pedestrianised area was turned into extra laybys to allow traffic to pass unobstructed.

They believe the creation of a 20mph zone in the summer would not sufficiently minimise the risk of accidents.

Blackburn with Darwen Council said the work carried out by Capita had improved safety.

In 2012 six bus stop markings were painted on the side of the road nearest the school and a zebra crossing was installed between the marked drop-off zones.

Before that, buses had no secured parking space and had to park along the road.

Labour councillor Whalley said: ”We’ve had several complaints from residents about the scheme. ”

Tory councillor Tapp said: “I think it would be worth investing in creating new laybys because it’s only a matter of time before someone gets hit by a car.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s executive member for regeneration, Coun Maureen Bateson said: “It is now a safer, dedicated pedestrian crossing point in a traffic calmed environment.

“A new raised traffic island was built in a safer place which was something the school requested.”

Colleges spokeswoman Jacqueline Taylor said: “No-one has contacted us about the issue and we have not had any recent safety issues.”