A COWDENBEATH councillor is “absolutely delighted” that long-awaited road safety improvements are to be introduced outside a primary school.

In March 2021 Darren Watt highlighted parent concerns that there was no lollipop man or woman and only a zebra crossing to help children cross Broad Street to get to Cowdenbeath Primary School.

However, work is set to begin on Monday to upgrade it to a puffin crossing, with traffic lights to stop traffic and help keep pupils safe.

The work is expected to cost around £40,000.

Cllr Watt said: “Although this project was long approved by the Cowdenbeath area committee, there was a delay to starting the works because of resource availability. Staff were redeployed to address the pothole backlog.

“The safety and wellbeing of our young people is absolutely paramount and this will be very welcome news for pupils, parents and school staff who have long campaigned for additional traffic calming measures.

“Once upgraded, I would still urge pedestrians to be mindful of their surroundings and encourage motorists to be cautious and considerate, especially during peak times.

“People just want to get to and from school safely and without unnecessary risk.

“I have previously reported that an additional crossing will be implemented directly outside the school and I am seeking further feedback and a timescale from council officials.”

Last year, the Scottish Conservative councillor had told the Times: "The school is on an incredibly busy road and major bus route, plus the layout and width of Broad Street makes it all the more challenging for parents and pupils to cross safely, especially as there is not a controlled crossing nearby."