Traffic to face a ban at 10 city schools

A SCHEME to ban traffic outside schools during drop- off and pick- up times will be trialled at 10 Bradford primaries.

There have long been calls for Bradford Council to implement so- called “school streets”.

The authority marked yesterday’s Clear Air Day by announcing that two schools in each of its constituencies would be part of the pilot scheme.

Coun Alex Ross- Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “Roads around schools can often be congested and chaotic at drop- off and pick- up times.

“We believe school streets can help alleviate much of that and make the area around schools safer and nicer environments for children, parents, school staff, residents and businesses.

“By encouraging families to walk or cycle to school, the scheme also promotes healthier and more active lifestyles.

“We look forward to working with the schools who sign up for the pilot scheme and seeing the impact of the changes and learning how other schools across the district can benefit in the future.”

The pilot will mean traffic on a number of roads around each school will be limited at drop- off and pick- up times.

The council has yet to name the schools involved, saying it is currently in talks.

The trial is likely to begin later this year and, if a success, more school streets could be introduced.

Access will be opened for businesses and people living in the affected streets, while some vehicles, such as the emergency services, and people with mobility issues, will be exempt.