Winton Academy parents criticised for parking on grass

Bryan Fennell, 81, who lives on London Road in Andover, says parking chaos outside his home during morning and afternoon pick-ups at nearby Winton Academy has reached “intolerable” levels, with cars churning up grass verges, blocking driveways and creating a dangerous environment for children and residents alike.

The land, which is owned by the council, is not intended for parking, but parents collecting and dropping off students frequently use it regardless.

Mr Fennell said: “They’ve got a pull-in at the school, where they go in, pick the kids up or drop them off, and drive out.

The damage of the grass on London Road. (Image: Dan Quina Brito)

“They’ve just put a no-parking sign up there saying parents can’t use it because somebody got injured, but they’re quite willing to have somebody over here get injured.

“I’ve had over 50 cars out here and the grass gets torn up. It becomes a hazard because it’s slippery, especially at this time of year with the rain.

“If they can’t get in this side by coming up the main drive, they come off the road over the corner of the kerb.

“It’s just an accident waiting to happen.”

Drivers have also verbally abused Mr Fennell when he has asked them to move.

After nearly 40 years living on London Road, he said the problem only began after the Covid-19 lockdown.

He believes the school should make better use of a nearby green area to create a dedicated pick-up and drop-off zone.

Winton Academy acknowledged the ongoing issues.

A spokesperson for the school said: “We are aware that at certain times of the day, particularly during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up, traffic and parking pressures increase in the surrounding area, including London Road.

The damage of the grass on London Road. (Image: Dan Quina Brito)

“We fully recognise that this can cause frustration for local residents.

“The school regularly reminds parents and carers to be considerate when parking, to respect residents and local property, and to use appropriate and legal parking options when dropping off and collecting their children.”

Hampshire County Council said it had worked with the school on several travel initiatives but acknowledged enforcement options were limited.

A spokesman said: “We are aware of concerns about parking and road safety around Winton Academy at drop-off and pick-up times.

“Our school travel planning team has previously worked with the school on various initiatives, including promoting considerate parking, Park and Stride and walking options.”

He added that parking enforcement is only possible where formal restrictions, such as yellow lines, are in place.