Government’s School Streets Scheme will close roads at drop-off and pick-up times of Thatcham school
Roads adjacent to Francis Baily School in Thatcham will now close temporarily at drop-off and pick-up times.
This will start at the beginning of the new school year on September 5.
This is part of the Government-funded School Streets Scheme which West Berkshire Council (WBC) has secured for delivery in 2023 and 2024.
The aim of the initiative is to ‘enhance safety and promote sustainable modes of transportation’ such as walking, cycling, and push scooters.
Those impacted by the scheme will have the opportunity to raise concerns or suggest improvements once it commences.
They will have until March next year to make comments.
WBC says the scheme will undergo a comprehensive review and potential adjustments, leading to a decision whether to make the scheme permanent or be removed.
WBC executive member for highways, housing and sustainable travel Denise Gaines said: “We're excited to share our second School Street Scheme at Francis Bailey, following the success we’ve had in Calcot.
“We know it might take a little time for drivers to get used to the new rules, but our main goal is crystal clear.
“Creating a clean and safe space for children who walk or bike to school.
“By reducing traffic congestion and slowing down vehicles, the risk of accidents is minimised, and children can navigate the area more safely and happier as they gain more independence.”
She added: “As we move forward, we want to invite all drivers to pay attention to the new rules.
“And if you're directly affected by the scheme, we’d love for you to join our talks.
“Your ideas and involvement are really important to us as we all work together for a safer and lively school community.”
More information on the scheme can be found at https://shorturl.at/bfwSW
A free School Streets awareness course can be found at https://shorturl.at/hmoyG
Anyone who wishes to provide feedback can do so by emailing activetravel@westberks.gov.uk
The first School Street Scheme was introduced in Calcot in September 2021.
The council said that it has actively reduced the number of vehicles driving through or parking in the designated restricted areas.
But there is a small number of divers that misunderstand the rules.
To maintain safety, the council sought Part 6 powers from the Department for Transport which will enforce the restrictions permanently.
This means, at the start of term, Calcot Infant and Junior School will have an Automatic Number Plate Recognition camera system implemented – resulting in fines and PCNs for unauthorised vehicles that enter the restricted area.
This hasn’t been confirmed for Thatcham.
The School Street restrictions apply during the school drop-off and pick-up times, Monday to Friday, during school term-time only.
