School streets programme introduced to four more Redbridge schools

The scheme is aimed at making the roads around school safer for children

A school streets programme has been introduced to four more schools in Redbridge.

The initiative stops motor vehicles from accessing roads around schools for around an hour at the start and end of the school day during term time.

The scheme has been implemented to help eliminate dangerous traffic hotspots near the schools, and make children less vulnerable to road accidents.

It’s also hoped it will reduce children’s exposure to harmful air pollution from vehicle emissions, and encourage more walking, scooting, and cycling to school.

Avanti Court Primary School, Wanstead Church School, Aldersbrook Primary School, and Fullwood Primary School are the newest additions to the programme.

Oakdale Infant and Junior Schools are also set to roll-out the scheme from Monday, 1 November.

Signs have been put in place showing that the zone can only be accessed by cyclists and pedestrians at the displayed times, unless vehicles have an exemption.

Residents and businesses located in a school streets zone have to apply for a free exemption to avoid getting fined.

Redbridge Council estimates nearly 3,700 children are enjoying healthier and safer journeys due to the programme.

Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Jas Athwal, said: “Children’s safety, from vehicles and pollution, is at the heart of the School Streets Programme, and I was thrilled to see the positive impact that this is having for pupils at Fullwood Primary School on Wednesday.

“With calmer and quieter streets during school pick-up and drop-off times, children are able to scoot and cycle safely”

Executive Headteacher of Fullwood Primary School, Danvir Visvanathan, said: “Children have a right to travel to school safely and be protected from the harmful effects of air pollution and the School Streets Programme is enabling this to happen.

“The traffic congestion previously experienced at drop-off and pick-up times was of immense concern, but the restrictions in place now significantly reduce the risks to children walking, cycling, and scooting to school.

“We have already seen a big difference in the way in which our pupils arrive confidently at school on their scooters and bicycles. It is also very good for their physical well-being.”

More information on the scheme can be found on the Redbridge Council website.

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