Pupils learn about the danger of roadworks

Pupils at All Saints’ Primary School in Freshwater have been taught about the possible dangers of roadwork sites.

As part of the highways PFI, Newport-based company Island Roads undertakes an education programme, timing visits to schools to coincide with the start of surfacing works.

Island Roads is in the process of upgrading, enhancing and maintaining the Isle of Wight's 804km of rural and urban roads, 756km of footways, 29km of cycleways, over 12,000 street lights, 239 bridges, 612 structures, public car parks, signage, CCTV and street furniture.

During the visits, Island Roads staff speak to youngsters about the possible dangers of roadwork sites as well as try to spark early interest in engineering by getting pupils to build basic bridges in a fun and interactive way.

Rebecca Tuck, Island Roads communications officer, said: “The PFI is about more than just improving and maintaining the Island’s highways, we really do want to involve everyone in the community in what we are doing.

“An important part of that involves the school visits where we discuss with pupils the potential dangers of roadwork sites. This is especially important given the fact the highways PFI will be undertaking so much work in residential areas.”

Headteacher Nicki Mobley said: “The pupils really enjoyed learning about the work that is being done to improve the Island’s roads and of course, the safety message about the importance of keeping away from roadworks is vital.”