20
Jul
2026
Learners, staff and supporters of Liberty College in Margate are calling for continued partnership with local authorities to improve road safety outside the college, following ongoing discussions about the need for a safer crossing point and additional traffic-calming measures.
Since the beginning of 2025, the college has been advocating for the installation of a pedestrian crossing outside the college to help safeguard its learners, many of whom are among the most vulnerable road users in the community.
The college supports students with a range of additional needs, including visual impairments, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety and other conditions that can make navigating busy roads particularly challenging.
The first official site visit by a local councillor took place in March 2025. Since then, former councillor Barry Lewis and councillors Jamie Henderson and Terry Mole have visited the area and listened to concerns raised by learners and staff.
Liberty College appreciates the time taken by local representatives to engage with the issue and recognises the challenges involved in prioritising and funding road safety projects. However, the college remains concerned that, despite positive discussions, no visible improvements have yet been introduced.
Liberty College is at the Westwood Industrial Estate which has evolved significantly in recent years. Once dominated by warehouses, the area is now home to a growing number of independent businesses that attract substantial pedestrian traffic throughout the day. The college is also situated alongside another educational establishment, increasing the number of students regularly crossing the road.
Staff and learners have consistently highlighted concerns about speeding vehicles, the limited visibility of 20mph speed limit signage and the absence of safety measures commonly seen outside educational settings.
Suggested improvements include:
Representatives from both Kent County Council (KCC) and Thanet District Council (TDC) have acknowledged that improvements could be beneficial, although funding and competing priorities have presented challenges.
Liberty College hopes that by continuing to work collaboratively with local authorities, practical solutions can be identified and delivered.
What has resonated strongly with learners is the belief that preventative action should be a priority. During one discussion about the challenges of securing funding for road safety measures, a Liberty College learner posed a simple but powerful question: “Which one of us do you want to die before a pedestrian crossing is put in place?”
While emotional, the comment reflects the genuine concern felt by many learners who use the road every day and worry about their safety.
“We understand that councils face difficult decisions and budgetary pressures,” said Adina, Lead Campaigner for Liberty College. “However, we believe that road safety improvements are most effective when implemented proactively. Our learners deserve the same level of protection and consideration afforded to students in other educational settings, and we look forward to continuing our discussions with local authorities to achieve this.”
Learners and supporters are organising a flash mob demonstration to highlight the importance of road safety and to show that this issue remains a priority for the college community. The event is intended as a positive call for action, encouraging continued dialogue, greater transparency and a clearer understanding of the steps being taken to improve safety in the area.
Liberty College is calling on Kent County Council and Thanet District Council to continue working together with the college, local businesses and residents to deliver practical, cost-effective improvements that prioritise the safety of vulnerable learners and the wider community.
Watch the flashmob HERE
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