PROTESTERS demanding traffic calming measures on a West Swindon rat-run have won the first phase of their battle.

Temporary chicanes and a pedestrian crossing will be put in during the next few weeks along Rowton Heath Way and outside Oliver Tomkins Infant and Junior Schools in Toothill.

The announcement was made during this week's meeting of the West Swindon area forum at the Link Centre following a debate between residents, parents, councillors and Swindon Council officers.

Residents and parents feel Rowton Heath Way and adjoining Beaumaris Road is being used as an alternative route by motorists following the introduction of speed humps on nearby Freshbrook Way.

Last June the Advertiser reported that a nine-year-old boy was knocked down by a bus outside the school, prompting parents to send a 1,500-signature petition to Prime Minister Tony Blair calling for safety measures.

However, after being presented with three traffic-calming options by Adrian Dean, of the council's traffic management department, at Monday night's meeting it was decided temporary chicanes and a crossing outside the school would be tested before permanent measures are put in place.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Dean, said: "The situation outside Oliver Tomkins School has been a concern to a lot of parents and we were particularly alarmed to hear the school's lollipop lady resigned after suffering verbal abuse from motorists in the area.

"One option is to install a zebra crossing near to the access of the school with white zig zag lines.

"It will ensure that any motorists parking on the crossing will automatically receive three points on their licence.

"Another option is to install traffic cushions and there has been talk of closing Rowton Heath Way.

"All we want to do is find out what residents and parents think about it."

But Rowton Heath Way resident Diego Destro said installing traffic calming near the school would do little for the safety of pedestrians.

"I think closing the road would be a good option, but you have got to slow traffic down a crossing is not going to help," he said.

"It (Rowton Heath Way) is a ferocious road. You have either got to stop traffic, or slow it down."

Keith Burke, of Grosmont Drive, said: "I think if you are going to be dealing with this issue you have to consider the bottom (of the hill) near Grosmont Drive, which is on a blind bend.

"How no one has been killed there I have no idea.

"Chicanes are the best because people have to slow down."

Rhian Cockwell, the headteacher of Oliver Tomkins Infants School, attended the forum and was pleased council officers listened to both residents and parents.

She said: "We are pleased something has been done before a serious accident happens. I have been pleased with the support the community has given the school and the council has listened to what parents and residents want."