A DUNFERMLINE councillor has hit out at drivers who are parking illegally outside schools causing annoyance for residents and unsafe conditions for children. 

Dunfermline South councillor James Calder says he has had a number of complaints recently from residents near Pitreavie Primary, Canmore Primary, Masterton Primary and Woodmill High schools.

He said: "I have received a significant number of complaints and can understand the frustrations of residents near schools. 

"On one instance recently I saw a photo showing four cars parked at the yellow zig-zag lines at the top of Spruce Grove by Pitreavie Primary which are there for child safety. 

"Other reports include blocking driveways, which is also unacceptable.

"The police are aware of the issues but ultimately we need to ensure that when parking cars near schools, there should be courtesy to local residents and ultimately that the safety of children is always considered."

Traffic management lead consultant Phil Clarke commented: "All road users must drive and park in accordance with the Highway Code and obey waiting and parking restrictions.

"This is especially important close to schools where there are many people walking and crossing the road.

"Parking attendants regularly patrol areas close to schools to carry out enforcement of the waiting restrictions. Police Scotland will also carry out patrols in the area to ensure people are driving safely.

"Our travel planning team work actively with schools across Fife to encourage active travel to school and reduce parking and road safety problems."

Chief Inspector Michael Williamson, local area commander for South West Fife, said: "As part of our commitment to casualty reduction on our road network, local policing teams and road policing officers regularly monitor traffic issues around schools to detect motoring offences and issues with dangerous or inconsiderate parking that could put pedestrians at risk of injury.

"Whenever such matters are identified we take appropriate action."