School run parents face fine if they drop children at gates
SCHOOL run parents are to be banned from driving or parking in streets surrounding their children’s classrooms.
The controversial traffic-busting scheme is being brought in from the start of the new term next week.
A pilot project will initially include three schools in Solihull and other local authorities are watching with interest.
School the bane run drivers have become of local residents’ lives in and around the areas close to classes, and the scheme, launched by Solihull Council, will mean drivers who breach the rules will be handed a fine.
Residents will be issued with permits to access the roads and emergency services will also be exempt.
Haslucks Green Junior School in Shirley, Marston Green Infant Academy and Oak Cottage Primary School in Greswolde Road have all signed up to the scheme after local people flagged up ongoing concerns about road safety and inconsiderate parking.
New signs will be put up in the roads and will be regulated by traffic officers.
The initiative, which has also been trialled in Edinburgh, is aimed at encouraging children and parents to walk, cycle or scoot to school.
Solihull roads boss Councillor Ted Richards said: “We know most people drive responsibly, but it can often be chaotic outside schools at drop-off and pick-up times.
“The aim of the School Streets campaign is to create a safer and more pleasant environment for everyone around schools.
“An added bonus will be the healthier and more active lifestyle it will prompt, with more pupils walking, cycling and scooting to school.
“The scheme has already been adopted in Edinburgh with early positive feedback, so we hope it will bring similar benefits to Solihull.”
The restrictions, which will start on Monday, will run for an initial trial period of up to 18 months. The changes also include the introduction of a new 20mph speed limit in surrounding areas.
Solihull Council says it would welcome feedback over the first six months of the project and will make changes if necessary.
After the trial period, the project will be reviewed and the scheme will be made permanent, modified or scrapped.