School Street
A School Street closes the road to traffic briefly at key drop off and collection times at the school, creating a much safer environment with improved air quality. Children can walk to school without experiencing gridlock and idling vehicles, dangerous driving, anti-social behaviour and toxic fumes. School Streets create a healthier environment for EVERYONE!
Key Benefits of School Streets
Environmental
Removal of congestion and reduction in emissions outside schools. School Streets have been proven to remove as much as 75% of the emissions in the immediate area.
Safety
Reduced instances of dangerous driving, parking and turning outside schools at times of day when many children and families are present.
Physical
Increased levels of walking, wheeling and cycling to school.
Social
Enhanced opportunities for social interaction and increased pupil independence.
Health
Improved physical and mental health amongst pupils.
The results from Hackney’s initial trial of School Streets included a 51% increase in cycling to school, a 30% increase in walking and a 74% reduction in emissions. Waltham Forest School Streets have had a similar positive impact
How do we get a School Street?
School Streets can only be put in place through local consultation, where a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) already exists. A CPZ is necessary first as this provides the infrastructure to police the area and maintain it. It also minimises the impact of parked vehicles near the school. The combination of School Street and CPZ have proved very successful in other areas of the borough. Please read through the FAQ for additional information on how a School Street works.