Sydenham High School staged a protest outside the school gates this afternoon, to appeal to Lewisham Council to provide a permanent road crossing on Westwood Hill.

The busy crossing point outside the school is used by children from five local schools, alongside school staff and local residents.

It is a direct route to Kirkdale’s shops and Wells Park and is used constantly throughout the day by people hoping to dodge the constant flow of traffic.

Sophia Michael, aged 13 and a student at Sydenham High, said: “We really need a proper crossing for everyone’s safety. I’ve myself witnessed some close shaves when girls are crossing the road. It would be a lot more reassuring if we had lights there.”

Up until the beginning of this year, there was a school crossing patrol officer and it was hoped that this position would be refilled but despite the post being advertised, as yet no candidates have come forward.

The Council are continuing their search but the school and its supporters believe that the time has come to demand a permanent controlled crossing to protect the children and adults who regularly have to cross this very busy main road.

Sydenham High’s Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen cannot understand the Council’s reticence.

She said: “There is a raised platform and a pelican crossing outside Sydenham Girls’ School on Dartmouth Road – so why not here? We’ve avoided casualties so far but, given the volume and speed of traffic going down Westwood Hill and the behaviour of some motorists, we are extremely concerned that it’s only a matter of time before we have a serious incident.

"We shouldn’t have to wait until that happens to expect protection for our children, staff and neighbours.”

An online petition has been started by the school, which has attracted over 500 signatures and it is hoped that the protest today will attract more support.

To sign the petition, go to: https://www.change.org/p/liz-brooker-lewisham-gov-uk-provide-a-safe-road-crossing-on-westwood-hill