David Taylor MP Welcomes Progress on Safer Crossings Campaign in Gadebridge Road
David Taylor, Member of Parliament for Hemel Hempstead, has welcomed progress in efforts to improve road safety on Gadebridge Road, following a community campaign led by pupils at Gade Valley Primary School.
Earlier this year, the school was featured in the Hemel Gazette after pupils launched a campaign highlighting the dangers of crossing the busy road without a patrol, calling for urgent safety improvements.
Since then, David Taylor MP says he has been working with the Headteacher, parents, and local residents — alongside Cllr Angela Mitchell — to press Hertfordshire County Council for action. Following resident reports, engagement with the Headteacher, and a site visit, Mr Taylor wrote to the Council’s Chief Executive and has repeatedly followed up to push for progress.
Gadebridge Road has now been identified as a priority route in Dacorum’s Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), with plans for two new and improved crossing points near the school.
Welcoming the update, David Taylor MP said: “The campaign led by pupils at Gade Valley Primary has been incredibly powerful, and it’s right that their voices have been heard.
“After working closely with the school and Cllr Angela Mitchell, I’m pleased to see this issue now recognised as a priority. This is an important step towards making the journey to school safer for everyone.”
Angela Mitchell, Councillor for Gadebridge, said: "I’ve been proud to support pupils, parents and staff in pushing for these much-needed safety improvements, particularly now there is no longer a school crossing patrol at both ends of Gadebridge Road. School crossing patrols are vital to ensure children and parents' safety.
"I’ve heard firsthand the concerns from families about how dangerous this crossing can be, and there have been several near misses reported to me. This is a positive step forward, but I will continue working with David Taylor MP and the community to ensure these improvements are delivered."
Despite this progress, no timeline has yet been set for delivering the new crossings. Mr Taylor has written again to Hertfordshire County Council seeking clarity on timescales, funding, and next steps, including whether further safety measures will be extended towards Galley Hill.
In the meantime, the Council has confirmed that worn pedestrian crossings and zig-zag markings on Gadebridge Road will be repainted as part of this year’s works programme.
Mr Taylor added: “While the commitment to repaint markings is welcome, it’s essential that long-term safety measures are delivered without delay. I will continue working with the community to ensure this project moves forward as quickly as possible.”