Motion calling for urgent review of road safety in the Borders is withdrawn, after being deemed inappropriate following death of girl, 11
Last updated 21st Feb 2024
Scottish Borders Council's pledged to "fully review the circumstances" around the death of an 11-year-old girl - a week after she was involved in a collision with one of its bin lorries.
But a motion calling for an urgent review of road safety has been withdrawn, after it was deemed "inappropriate", so soon after the tragedy on the A6105 in East Gordon, Berwickshire.
Councillors stood for a moment's silence to remember Elizabeth Bell at the start of today's meeting, where tribute was paid to the youngster, who's been described by her school teacher as being "incredibly astute" with a "wicked sense of humour" which "shone through".
Addressing members this morning (Wednesday), council convener Watson McAteer said: "It is with great humility that I offer sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family of Elizabeth Bell... who sadly passed away on the 7th of February, following a tragic road accident near to her family home almost a week earlier.
"That tragic 31st of January winter morning is etched on our lives forever, as the news filtered through describing the terrible circumstances of the tragic events that ultimately claimed Elizabeth's young and precious life.
"We all felt pain - pain and suffering - that was nothing compared to that endured by her loving parents, Pip and Steven, and her brother Douglas; as well as her extended family and friends, who were to lose someone very special in their lives.
"Family witnessed a young, vibrant and happy daughter and sister leaving home in great spirits to meet her Earlston school friends, without any thought that she would never return to her beloved home set in that small, close-knit East Gordon community.
"Elizabeth fought hard for her life before ultimately succumbing to her injuries, leaving her family to grieve the loss of a wonderful daughter and to rightly question why this tragedy happened."
The meeting heard that Wednesday morning had begun as normal, with Elizabeth making her way to school in Earlston, in anticipation of meeting her friends and teachers.
Her teacher, Derrick Brydon, described the primary seven pupil as an "extremely popular classmate" who was liked by, and got along with, everyone she met.
"Elizabeth was incredibly astute and her wicked sense of humour shone through," he added. "Her passions were drama and horses, and she was equally brave and enthusiastic in these pursuits.
"She was a quiet and confident girl in school, always finding time to build numerous positive relationships with adults and children beyond her classroom."
READ MORE: Borders village's floral displays named among best in Britain
Councillor McAteer, a former police chief, went on to say no parent should have to suffer the loss of a child, never mind one so young.
He said: "I give an assurance that this authority will fully support our police colleagues in their investigation, and will work quickly and tirelessly to address the real community concerns at this very sad time."
Mid-Berwickshire councillor Mark Rowley had raised a special motion inviting Scottish Borders Council to record its "profound sorrow" following the tragedy, and identify any "additional measures" that can be taken.
It comes after we reported parents' concerns that children are having to stand at the side of roads with no pavements - and a 60mph speed limit - to await school transport.
In a statement, a local authority spokesperson said: “Following further consideration, a decision was taken to withdraw the motion with agreement of the Convener.
“There were a number of factors that led to this decision, not least, the possibility of public debate, which at this hugely sensitive time was deemed to be inappropriate. And at the risk of compromising Police Scotland’s ongoing investigation, it was agreed by all political parties this was the appropriate course of action to take.
“Please be assured Scottish Borders Council will fully review the circumstances around this awful incident and undertake any actions required.”
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/