Source: City of Plymouth
Two more Plymouth schools are trialling traffic restrictions during morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up times.
Cann Bridge and Tor Bridge Primary are the latest to introduce ‘Safer School Streets’, where roads are closed to school-run and through traffic during these peak times.
The measures – which aim to improve safety for all road users, make it easier for families to walk, cycle or scoot to school, tackle inconsiderate parking and create a healthier street environment with cleaner air – are widely welcomed by parents and local residents.
Cann Bridge and Tor Bridge Primary, which sit alongside each other in Estover, are the fourth and fifth schools in the city to trial the restrictions on a longer-term basis, with Stuart Road Primary being the first, followed by St Paul’s RC Primary and Compton CofE Primary.
Councillor John Stephens, the Council’s walking and cycling champion, said: “We’re really pleased to be working alongside Sustrans to help another two schools implement Safer School Streets measures. They have proven really popular at the other three trial locations and help to encourage families to either leave the car at home or at least make part of their journey in more active ways.
“This has so many benefits – not just for pupils, parents, staff and nearby residents but for the wider community as a whole. As well as reducing congestion and improving air quality around the school gates, they help to tackle some of the inconsiderate and irresponsible parking experienced by neighbours, making journeys safer and healthier for everyone.”
The trial began yesterday (Monday). Every weekday during term-time the entrance to Eden Valley Gardens is being closed with temporary barriers during morning and afternoon school run times (8am to 9am and then 2.15pm to 3.30pm.
Volunteers and members of staff are stewarding the closure and access is being maintained for local residents and businesses, parents and children with disabilities, the emergency services, deliveries and other service vehicles.
Shane Baker, Headteacher at Cann Bridge School, said: “We are grateful to our parents and staff for their support in making the Safer School Street initiative a reality. This program is crucial for ensuring the safety of all children, promoting active travel, and creating a cleaner, healthier environment at our school gates.
“Even in the short time spent outside this morning, it was evident that reducing vehicles on our road will significantly improve air quality. Together, we are building a safer community for everyone.”
The arrangements have been agreed for up to 18 months under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order, advertised in the local press and on street. Signs have also been placed on street to advise road users of the closure times.
Families are being encouraged to walk, cycle or scoot to school or, if they really need to drive, to ‘park and stride’ from Asda, who are supporting the scheme.
For more information see our Safer School Streets page or visit the School Streets website.