Arabic version: طلاب كلية كارول يحصلون على إذن للمشي وركوب الدراجات إلى المدرسة

Students at Carroll College Broulee on the NSW Far South Coast will soon be allowed to walk and cycle to school for the first time since the school opened. This change follows a decision by the Eurobodalla Shire Council that overturned a historic council motion and agreed to a pedestrian access trial. According to ABC News, the ban was originally implemented due to traffic safety concerns.

The school had believed that the prohibition was enforceable until recent discussions revealed that it was not legally binding. Father Joshua Scott, Moruya Parish Priest, stated that the misunderstanding had persisted for 32 years. Carroll College Principal Andrew Kenneally emphasized that the restriction was based on an outdated interpretation of development consent conditions.

The council’s recent meeting resulted in the approval of a six-month trial that will allow students to walk and ride to school. Kenneally expressed excitement about the change, highlighting the benefits it will bring in terms of student independence, physical activity, and reduced traffic congestion. Students have also voiced their enthusiasm, with Year 12 student Lukas Muir noting that biking to school would save time and money.

The trial will require students to walk south 600 metres along the west side of George Bass Drive to a roundabout where they can use a pedestrian refuge to cross the major road. Changes in traffic conditions since the school’s establishment, including reduced speed limits and improved road infrastructure, have contributed to the decision to permit student access. The college plans to collaborate with the council to ensure safety measures are in place during the trial period.