CONCERNED parents fear their children’s safety could be put at risk by controversial proposed catchment areas changes.

Several Leigh parents spoke out at a Southend Council meeting to voice their frustration, particularly over the risk that children may have to cross the A13 to get to school.

After months of debate, a new “model” has been proposed, but it would see some children moving from Chalkwell Hall to Darlinghurst.

Speaking at the meeting, parent Mr Bridgeman said: “The latest model proposes a small number of roads beyond the A13 corridor in the Chalkwell Hall catchment would become Darlinghurst catchment.This could require my children and others to cross the A13.

“Avoiding this was a consideration when we moved to the area in a backdrop of cuts. How can you give us sufficient assurances that significant investment will be made to explore suitable travel arrangements.”

James Courtenay, councillor for children and learning said that “it was not unusual for primary age pupils to cross the road. We already have school crossing in places on the A13. When we know how many additional children will be attending, we will look at whether we need to move crossings or add to them.”