Te Puke residents are being asked whether they support the introduction of a temporary 40km/h speed restriction on roads surrounding a number of local schools.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is proposing to create a ‘school zone' around Te Puke Primary School, Te Puke High School and Fairhaven School in a bid to improve student safety.

A key aspect of the proposal is a 40km/h speed restriction for 30 minutes each morning and afternoon while students arrive at and leave school.

The temporary limit will be displayed using electronic speed signs.

WBOPDC project manager Alex Finn says the close proximity of the three schools and the busy nature of the surrounding roads is what prompted the proposal.

'As Te Puke grows and roads get busier we want to make sure these school environments are as safe as possible – not just for children – but for motorists, parents and caregivers as well.

'Slowing down the speed limit during key drop-off and pick-up times of the day is a step in the right direction.”

The proposal has the full support of local principals from Te Puke Primary School, Te Puke High School and Fairhaven School.

Te Puke Primary School Principal Shane Cunliffe is backing the proposal, saying a ‘safe school zone' in and around Cameron Rd in particular is a much-needed community initiative.

'Cameron Rd is a major thoroughfare in Te Puke, where a huge number of trucks, buses and cars tend to push the limits with speed along with a huge increase in numbers at school pick-up and drop-off times. 'It is only a matter of time until someone gets killed.

'[So I am pleased that WBOPDC has the foresight to provide safer roads in our community.”

Te Puke High School Principal Alan Liddle also supports the proposal and says the health and safety of all Te Puke students is paramount.

'The responsibility for Te Puke students getting to and from school safely is a collective responsibility of all members of the community. Reducing the speed limit on certain roads near our schools will help to minimise the risks for our students.”

The speed restriction will apply to Cameron Rd between Muir Place and Princess St, Kowhai Avenue, Tui St; and Beatty Ave between Queen St and Tui St for the Te Puke schools.

For Fairhaven School, the speed restriction will apply to Boucher Ave between Lenihan Drive and just south of Cameron Rd, Cameron Rd between Clydesburn Ave and Boucher Ave – and McBeth Drive at the intersection with Boucher Ave.

If approved, the new safer speed limits are expected to be introduced on October 1, 2016.

Feedback on the proposal is open from Friday, July 1, until 4pm Friday, July 15. People can have their say online at http://haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/school-speed or email speed@westernbay.govt.nz