An extra 2,000 pupils will enjoy healthier and safer trips to and from schools with the creation of more low-traffic zones.
Children from Highlands Primary School, Manford Primary School, Farnham Green Primary School and Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School are the newest additions to the programme, which will come into effect from Monday, October 31.
It is part of Redbridge’s successful School Streets Programme that has already seen 3,700 pupils benefit from the project so far.
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The initiative means vehicles from outside the zones will not be able to enter the streets surrounding the schools, for around an hour, at the start and end of the school day during term time.
The aim is to eliminate dangerous traffic hotspots near the schools and make children less vulnerable to road accidents by creating a safer journey to school.
Redbridge Council leader Cllr Jas Athwal said: “Children’s safety from vehicles and pollution is at the heart of the School Streets Programme, and I am pleased to see the addition of four more schools to the programme.
“With calmer and quieter streets during school pick-up and drop-off times, children will be able to walk, scoot and cycle more safely to and from school.”
Supported by head teachers and families, the restrictions also help reduce children’s exposure to harmful vehicle emissions and encourage more walking, scooting, and cycling to school.
Residents and businesses within the zone can apply for exemptions to access their properties as usual.
Signs will be in place to notify drivers that cyclists and pedestrians can only access school street zones at the displayed times unless vehicles have an exemption.
Non-exempt vehicles entering the school streets zones when restrictions are in force will be identified by traffic enforcement cameras and issued a fine.
Cllr Jo Blackman, cabinet member for environment and civic pride, said: “These school streets schemes are making a significant and positive impact across our borough by encouraging healthier travel choices and making the journey to school safer for children.
“These schemes can also help tackle climate change by encouraging active travel and reducing emissions.”
To find out the exact time for the schools, visit https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/roads-and-pavements/redbridge-school-streets/.
https://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/23040404.traffic-crackdown-help-redbridge-students/
