Parking muddle

By Bridget Brady
A LACK of parking is causing a muddy mess for parents and children at a Cranbourne school.
And the parents from Marnebek School, a school for children with intellectual disabilities, say a crossing is needed to improve the safety of students before it’s too late.
Parent Charlize Pirie said the shortage of car spots meant she was forced to park on grassy areas on the side of the road that became muddy and slippery during the wet.
“You almost have to pack your gum boots,” she said.
The parking squeeze sees Ms Pirie arrive at 2.15pm to get in early and secure a spot before the end of school rush.
On a more serious note, a recent close call with her son Thomas made the need for a school crossing a matter of urgency for Ms Pirie, and has inspired her to chase up a petition to address the issues with the Casey Council.
“He slipped down the ditch, got up and went to walk across and nearly got hit,” she said.
“I nearly lost Thomas. That was when it became emotional for me.”
Ms Pirie said a crossing was a necessity at the school.
“Especially kids with disabilities. They don’t have the best traffic awareness.”
Casey councillor Geoff Ablett agreed it was not acceptable that a crossing wasn’t in place.
“If we don’t do something, someone’s going to get seriously hurt,” Cr Ablett said.
Council staff are investigating the issues raised in the petition and will prepare a report for the council at a meeting in August.