Millicent Spencer
A new school in Mickleham has failed to deliver a school crossing outside its new campus, prompting a concerned local resident to take action.
The new Darul Ulum Academy on Ellscott Boulevard in Mickleham is a private Islamic school which opened its doors for prep to grade four students just weeks ago.
According to an email seen by Star Weekly from Hume council, the school had included plans for a crossing during its planning stage, however it has “not yet delivered”.
“As an independent school, Darul Ulum Academy is required to provide a school crossing at their frontage to council’s satisfaction,” the email said.
“Council is currently working with the school to determine when the crossing will be delivered.”
Concerned resident Melanie Polla brought the matter to the school and council’s attention after witnessing a family crossing the road in an unsafe manner.
Ms Polla said she was turning right onto Ellscott Road when she witnessed a family run right in front of her, stopping traffic.
“This is an extremely unsafe way to cross but there is no real alternative,” she said.
“I really do hope there are no incidents where a child is hurt.
“The amount of drivers doing well over 50km down Ellscott Boulevard is horrifying, some drivers are for sure doing 80-100km.”
Ms Polla is advocating for a school crossing and reduction of speed limit to be implemented on Ellscott Boulevard.
A council spokesperson said council would be making application to the Department of Transport to install school speed zone signage at the front of the campus.
The school was contacted for comment but did not respond. However, Star Weekly has seen an email sent from the school to Ms Polla after she wrote of her concerns.
“On behalf of Darul Ulum Academy, we would like to thank you for taking the time and relaying your concern about the pedestrian crossing on Ellscott Boulevard,” the email read.
“Our property department will be discussing these safety measures with the local council in an attempt to ensure all stake holders, including drivers, pedestrians and local residents are safe at all times.”
