Bath and North East Somerset Council is consulting on plans to restrict traffic on three streets near local schools during peak times, aiming to enhance safety for schoolchildren. The proposed ‘school streets’ scheme would close these roads to most traffic during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up hours.
Councillor Lucy Hodge, cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, emphasized the initiative’s focus on children’s safety: “School Streets are about putting children and their safety first. By reducing traffic outside school gates, we can make journeys safer, calmer, and more enjoyable.” She encouraged parents, staff, and residents to review the proposals and share feedback.
If approved, Archway Street and Excelsior Street near Widcombe Infant and Junior Schools would be closed to vehicles from 8:20 to 9:00 am and from 2:50 to 3:30 pm on school days. Similarly, the northern end of Beacon Road near St Stephen’s Primary Church School would be closed from 8:15 to 9:00 am and 3:00 to 3:45 pm.
READ MORE: Somerset Councillor Tony Robbins Dies Suddenly, Tributes Pour In
READ MORE: Sertraline Side Effect Alert: NHS Highlights Rare but Serious Serotonin Syndrome Symptoms
Exemptions to the restrictions would include emergency vehicles, school buses, delivery vans, Blue Badge holders, and essential service vehicles. Parents of children with Education Health and Care Plans or accessibility needs can apply for permits to drive on the restricted streets during these times. However, permits are unlikely to be granted to parents, staff, or residents not living on the affected streets.
Road safety charity Brake highlights the ongoing risk on UK roads, reporting that approximately nine children aged seven or under are injured or killed daily, with 3,400 child casualties recorded in 2022. Despite this, government data shows a significant decline in road casualties among children since 2014, including a 29% reduction for boys and 36% for girls aged 16 or under. Great Britain maintains one of the lowest road fatality rates per capita globally.
The council is inviting residents to comment on the proposals online by Thursday, February 26.