MORE pedestrian crossings and safer road improvements close to school could take place in the borough if the hopes of two local councillors are fulfilled.

In the wake of an accident last week that saw an 11-year-old boy injured as he attempted to cross a busy South Ockendon Road, a pledge of prompt remedial action by Thurrock Council has been welcomed - but it is hoped it is only the first step.

The council overturned a previous decision not to spend money on a new crossing outside the Harris Ockendon Academy, prompting councillors to say it is time for a thorough review of traffic control round Ockendon schools

Ockendon Labour councillors Sue Shinnick and Mike Fletcher welcomed the council's decision move but added that more is needed.

"It's good that the council have finally seen fit to sort out the road by Harris Academy", said Cllr Fletcher, "Although it's a shame that it's taken an accident to make them do so. Now we will wait to see if the council makes good on its promise"

"The academy isn't the only place children are taking their lives in their hands," added Cllr Shinnick. "Somers Heath has expanded massively in recent years and despite parents' repeated requests the roads around the school are still a nightmare.

"We will be pressing the council to do the same as it has done at Harris Academy and take the fears of Ockendon parents seriously."