School pedestrian scheme set to become permanent

Pedestrian schemes designed to make roads directly around schools safer for pupils are set to be made permanent.

Woodcote Primary School in Coulsdon and Heavers Farm Primary School and St Chad’s Catholic Primary School, both in Selhurst, began trialling new pedestrian zones during the school run last September.

The schemes were introduced after parents, teachers, residents, the police and local councillors raised concerns about safety immediately outside the schools during the school run.

The restrictions stop most vehicles from accessing the roads the schools are on during the morning and afternoon school run.

Exemption permits are available to residents living in the roads, staff at the school, transports for children with special educational needs and others with a legitimate need to access the road.

Susan Papas, executive headteacher of Heavers Farm and Selsdon Primary schools, said: “Since the implementation of the Croydon Council School pilot scheme, we have noticed a significant decrease in cars that drive and park up the road.

“The residents have mentioned the street has become quieter during the ‘school run’ periods and it is now much safer for both parents and children to walk up the road.

“Furthermore, we have observed that more pupils are now using other modes transport i.e. buses, cycling, walking and carpooling.”

Similar schemes could be rolled out to other schools across the borough where concerns about safety at the school gate have been raised.

“I am really encouraged by the impact the scheme has had with evidence fewer children are being driven to school as a result of this pilot.

“At one school almost two thirds of pupils are now walking, cycling or scooting to school, compared with barely half this time last year.”

“I am delighted all three schools have confirmed the environment immediately outside the school gate has improved and become safer following the introduction of the scheme.”

Councillor Stuart King, cabinet member for environment, transport and regeneration

2018-07-12T19:40:28+01:00 July 12th, 2018|Recent news|