A BARRHEAD councillor has called for car-free zones for the school run in East Renfrewshire.

As part of a move to keep pupils safe, Glasgow City Council is to introduce a traffic-free trial around seven primary schools.

And in the “Tackling the School Run” report from the Scottish Government it was revealed that 30 per cent of journeys to schools in East Renfrewshire are made by car – the same as in Glasgow.

READ MORE: St Mark's parents worry over drivers outside Barrhead school

Now there are calls for East Renfrewshire Council to follow suit, with one elected member comparing the school run in Barrhead to the “M8 at rush hour.”

Councillor Paul Aitken, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor as an Independent, said he would be “strongly in favour” of a car-free zone trial.

He said: “Like most parents, I feel that the roads around our primary and secondary schools are beginning to resemble the M8 at rush hour.

“I would be strongly in favour of trialling car-free zones in the roads around our schools in the interests of the safety of all Barrhead pupils and to prevent obstructive parking generally.”

His call has been backed by fellow Independent David Macdonald, who said there is an “urgent” need for car-free zones at some local schools.

Councillor Macdonald, who represents Clarkston, Netherlee and Williamwood, added: “I very much hope that East Renfrewshire Council can follow the example set.”

Last year, some parents said they feared “irresponsible” parking outside St Mark’s Primary would end in a child being killed.

A petition was launched, calling on the council to transform the derelict Arthurlie Family Centre next door into a safe drop-off/pick-up zone for pupils.

On the issue of car-free zones, the Barrhead News understands the council currently has no plans to introduce them.

A council spokesperson said: “As part of our commitment to providing safe travel routes to school we promote several initiatives, such as Walk to School Week, to encourage families to leave the car at home.

“Crossing patrollers are also employed to assist pupils at some of the area’s busier roads.

“A School Travel Assessment (STA) project is currently under way which will allow us to assess the circumstances at every school and develop an action plan for each.

“We will continue to ensure students’ safety and encourage parents to walk or use public transport when possible.”