OVERJOYED parents have finally been promised a crossing to combat the “deathtrap” road outside their children’s primary school.

Basildon Local Highways Panel has pledged £150,000 to install an electronic puffin crossing near Janet Duke Primary School, in Markhams Chase, Laindon.

It follows three years of lobbying from parents, teachers and councillors.

Angry mums and dads said youngsters were at risk because of speeding and illegally parked cars.

They feared a child could be seriously injured, or even killed, if no action was taken.

Essex County Council may decide to install a zebra crossing instead of the proposed puffin crossing, which would cost considerably less, if it meets criteria.

The crossing will be installed from April, with cash coming out of next year’s budget.

Mum of five Sarah Steel, of Somercotes, Laindon, who has been campaigning for the crossing for years, said: “It’s made my day to hear we have got the crossing. My dream has come true that all the kids will be safe.

“That road is a death trap.

This crossing will teach the children to cross the road properly and we will get some respect from the drivers.”

Dad of three James Tape, 36, of Dickens Drive, Laindon, said: “It’s brilliant news – how about that for Christmas.

“I am still sceptical, as we have been told things various times, but, if it happens, we will feel more comfortable knowing our children are safe.”

Concerns had been raised that cuts to the highways panel’s budget might have left the crossing without funding.

But the council has sought to quell fears.

An Essex highways liaison officer said: “We can confirm that, following a recent survey, the area does meet the criteria for a crossing in terms of how many people cross the road at the site compared with the number of vehicles passing.

“The panel has agreed to pay for the design and has asked that the councillor responsible for highways considers where funding for the implementation could come from.”

Ukip county councillor for Laindon Mark Ellis, who sits on the local highways panel, said: “This was fully supported by the highways panel. One final safety survey needs to be carried out first, but it will happen.

“I have been trying for this since I was elected, because it’s really needed. It will be of paramount importance to parents.”