Parking ban outside Kirkcaldy primary school to become permanent
A parking ban outside at Kirkcaldy primary school is to be made permanent after two trial periods.
Councillors agreed to the move at St Marie’s Primary School, overruling one objection to the proposal.
It comes after two 18-month trials which saw a School Exclusion Zone (SEZ) piloted to ban vehicles from Macindoe Crescent during school drop-off and pick-up times.
It was one of three carried out at schools across Fife in a bid to improve pupil safety. The first in 2022 was repeated after many parents simply ignored the order. Councillors were told some drivers “chose to ignore the restrictions with impunity” - and that led to a steady drop in compliance levels. Police are the only ones who can enforce the exclusion zone rules.
This week, Kirkcaldy area committee dismissed the one objection raised, and decided to make the ban permanent between the times of 8.30-9.30am and 2.30-3.30pm.
Families who choose to drive their children to school are encouraged to use the dedicated park‑and‑stride site at Overton Community Hall, just a short walk from the school.
The scheme will continue to support safer journeys to and from school and encourage active travel, such as walking and wheeling. A permit system will remain in place for residents of Macindoe Crescent.
Councillor Ian Cameron, committee convenor, said: “Keeping children safe on their journey to and from school is a priority. This scheme has been developed over time, with input and support from the school and locals, and will help create a safer environment around the school gates.”
The move was welcomed by the school.
Alison Robertson, headteacher, said: “The safety of our children is a high priority for us. The School Exclusion Zone is already making a real difference, and when everyone respects the rules and looks out for one another, it helps to create a safer environment for all. We are delighted to see this positive measure made permanent.”
The sole objection said MacIndoe Crescent has a safe turning point, lowered kerbs for parking, and ample parking, and the restriction imposed hardship on parents taking the children to school in car