PLANS to cut school crossing patrols could be scrapped in Brent following a U-turn by council leaders after concerns from parents and schools.

The Labour-led council will decide on whether to put the recommendation through at an executive meeting on September 19 following a consultation in May and June.

Provision of school crossing patrols is optional by the council.

The Liberal Democrat group has welcomed the decision to stop the axe falling on 30 of Brent’s 47 school crossing patrols.

Group leader Councillor Paul Lorber, said: “This is a victory for people power. People were outraged Labour could put children’s safety at risk in this way and by the flawed nature of the consultation.

"Hundreds of parents and residents signed the Liberal Democrat petition to save the lollipop patrols or lobbied the council.

“However, it is important we all keep up the pressure until the decision is made.

"I will reserve full judgment until examining the executive report carefully. We need to be sure Labour will not bring back the proposals once the current controversy has died down.”

Councillor Jim Moher, lead member for highways and transportation, said: "When we can see the balance of the argument is in favour of caution, we are not above changing our minds and it is very well recognised within the council that we need to be very careful about road safety."