By JULIA RAVENSCROFT

A TRAVEL plan to reduce the number of car trips to Bridgewater High School has been unveiled after a meeting with nearby residents.

A range of measures have been set out which will also improve safety on the school journey in the light of recent government policies on transport and education.

Initiatives include encouraging staff to car share by providing a computer database and providing secure cycle parking.

The school is also set to improve travel awareness issues at parents' evenings and provide cycle training for pupils while reviewing the cycle limit and introducing cycle-to-school days. It is also planning to improve locker space for pupils cycling or walking to school and will include more environmental topics within the curriculum in years seven to 11 such as road safety.

Other ways the school is looking at road safety issues will include entering into discussions with public transport bosses to find ways of improving links to school or reduced fares for pupils and the possibility of a dedicated school bus as well as volunteers to help youngsters cross busy roads.

To help residents, who complained of inconsiderate parking and manoeuvring by parents the school is also looking at ways to discourage them parking in Beechways and Hall Drive after a speed and video study was carried out.

The plan says: "Consultation has been carried out with parents and local people to understand their concerns about school travel.

"The plans defines a number of targets and suggests monitoring so that achievements can be measured."

Copies of the plan are available from the school and the borough council.