A PETITION by residents in East Tilbury hoping to lower a speed limit outside the village primary school looks set to be ignored.

The online-petition was presented by local independent councillor Fraser Massey, a strong advocate of reducing speed outside all borough schools, and he is particularly keen that the schools in his ward are protected.

However, in a report to the full council meeting later this week officers say East Tilbury is not considered a priority.

In response to the petition, the director of place Andy Millard's means it seems unlikely residents' wishes will be granted.

A statement says: "This would be covered under the Safer Routes to School programme; a five year programme to treat every school in the borough.

"At present, this school is not identified as a priority on the list. For reference, the priority list is based on Personal Injury Accidents data from the Police, Travel Plan and officer site evaluations.

"However, site visits have identified that 20mph speed limits would have a limited impact on road safety for children in this area, considering that vehicle speed on Gloucester Avenue is relatively slow and Princess Margaret Road is located away from the school."