School’s road closes for a lesson in clean air and picnics

A ROAD outside a primary school was officially closed and given over to picnic tables in an experimental move by the council which could become a regular occurrence as the authority works to promote clean air and good health.

The carriageway in Barnsley was closed for an hour at the start of the day with parents and carers encouraged to walk children to school or use cycles.

The closure in West Street, outside West Meadows School, allowed council workers and school staff to set out tables in the road to provide an outdoor breakfast for pupils as a treat for taking part in the project.

Results of the initiative will now be evaluated by Barnsley Council, but it is hoped the tactics will be used outside other primary schools in the borough in future, where the road layout is suitable to allow temporary closures.

Headteacher Daniel Wood took part in a “walking bus” to help guide youngsters and parents to the school of foot, while many others made the trip by bicycle.

Mr Wood said: “I am unbelievably delighted to be involved in this. It is the first in Barnsley we were asked if we were willing to help.

“The response just shows what a wonderful community we have. We don’t take the support of parents for granted and we are reaping the rewards of them working with us.”

The council’s aim was to promote clean air, in support of the National Clean Air initiative, as well as encourage healthy living by walking or cycling to school.

Coun Roy Miller, the council’s spokesman for place, said: “We want to create a cleaner, healthier Barnsley for everyone to enjoy.

“By closing the road, we hope to see children and parents doing their bit to make Barnsley’s air cleaner.”