A MISSING stretch of footpath which forces children to cross the road twice on their school route will not be replaced in the

foreseeable future.

Villagers were informed that a footpath would not be created on Station Road, in Burley-in-Wharfedale, at a community meeting.

Ken Scarlett, of Bradford City Council's Road Safety Department, said the work was not possible at present.

He said it would be necessary to culvert the beck or to narrow the road, which would be a costly and extensive undertaking.

The problem had been identified as a potential risk to children walking to school in a Travel to School Policy Document drawn up by Burley Oaks Primary School.

Since the reorganisation of the schools system greater numbers of children are using Station Road as a school route.

Roy Pallas, headteacher of the school, said: "Governing bodies were asked to look at children's journeys to school and try and produce a travel plan that highlighted possible areas of risk.

"It is my job as a head teacher and our job as governors to point out the problems to the powers that be. It is up to them as experts to come up with the solutions.

"My concern has to be for the safety of children going from and coming to school. Anything that the LEA does to improve this would be welcomed."

John Gundry, a committee member of Burley Community Council, said they would continue to fight for a footpath.

He said: "As far as Burley Community Council is concerned, we think that a footpath is a very high priority and it is something that we will be pressing for in the coming months."

Mr Scarlett did say that illuminated signs warning motorists of the school route were in the offing.

Mr Pallas said the school was also hoping someone would step forward as a school crossing warden.

He said: "We are desperate for someone to man a school crossing on Station Road."

Anyone interested should contact the school on (01943) 862642.