09-02-2025
New message rings out at Town Bridge after request from schoolchildren
A new message is ringing out across the speakers at Weymouth Town Bridge.
Pupils from Holy Trinity School in Weymouth have requested that a new message is read out whilst the bridge is raised – asking drivers to switch off their engines to help the environment.
School children from Holy Trinity inside the control room on the bridge (Image: Weymouth Town Council)
The Mayor of Weymouth Cllr Jon Orrell met with the students to praise them for their efforts.
Keen to help, the mayor raised the idea with Weymouth's harbour master and, working in partnership with Dorset Council they were delighted to inform the children that the new announcement is now in operation.
Cllr Orrell said: 'When the school approached me with the suggestion from children about the addition to the Town Bridge announcement, I was delighted to help. And it was great to be able to work in partnership with Dorset Council to add a message to drivers to turn off their engines while waiting either side of the bridge.
'We hope drivers will listen to the message and take action for the benefit of the environment in this picturesque part of our seaside town. Congratulations to the children at Holy Trinity.'
Holy Trinity School Council Leader, Hannah Daykin, added: 'As part of Holy Trinity's celebration of the Great Big Green Week last year, the children thoughtfully considered action that could be taken to tackle climate change and protect nature.
'We strongly encourage our children to be agents of change and we are delighted that the school council's suggestion to reduce car emissions has been acted upon. This will undoubtedly inspire others to make their voices heard and to act as responsible citizens, not only of Weymouth, but of the whole planet.'
Ed Carter, Dorset Council's Harbour Master, said: 'I am thrilled to see the community taking an active role in promoting environmental awareness, and I am proud to support this initiative led by our local school children.
'Their proactive approach to enhancing our town's environmental efforts is inspiring. We are committed to working together to ensure Weymouth remains a clean and beautiful place for everyone, and this new announcement is a testament to their dedication and our collective effort.'
