FAMILIES in Moffat have reacted angrily to the news the town could lose its lollipop man.
And it’s not the only community to be affected in Annandale, with change afoot in Lochmaben too.
Letters have gone out to lollipop men and women across Annandale, and Dumfriesshire, warning their posts could be cut as school crossing patrols are to be ‘rationalised’ as part of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s budget cuts.
Last month councillors agreed proposals to remove lollipop people where automated crossings are in place at seven locations within the region – including Jeff Brown Drive in Moffat.
In addition, 17 other schools — including Lochmaben Primary —will see staff ‘redeployed’.
It estimated that the changes will save the council £72,000 a year.
The official letter sent to the patrollers informs them of the next steps in the process and states: “We will meet with you and inform and consult you about changes which may affect your role.
“An initial meeting is planned with the Joint Trade Unions and shortly thereafter, we will meet with you to inform you, consult and discuss the changes as part of our commitment to engage with you, to share all the information available and to hear back from you on those proposals.
“The process of consultation must be concluded
before any changes are
made. It is important that anyone affected by a budget template is provided with the opportunity to engage with management during the consultation process and can provide feedback, raise any questions and put forward alternatives for consideration before any changes are implemented.”
A consultation with the impacted schools, parent councils and communities is also being considered, however no details have been made public yet.
Meanwhile, the news was shared on social media in Moffat this week and sparked concern.
Some parents are considering launching a campaign to save their lollipop man, who they say has ‘saved’ countless kids from being hit by cars.
