Royal Borough's first School Street to continue at Maidenhead primary school

The Royal Borough’s first School Street is set to continue following support for a number plate recognition camera to manage traffic.

This news follows feedback in support of the scheme’s trial at Wessex Primary School in St Adrians Close which encourages more families to walk to and from school.

With volunteer stewards currently helping run the School Street scheme, the council is calling for more volunteers to help ahead of the new camera being installed in the Spring, using Active Travel funding.

A School Street temporarily allows only permitted vehicles outside the school gates at drop off and pick up times, creating a ‘safer space’ for youngsters and their families to walk, wheel, cycle and scoot to school.

A YouTube video showcasing the contrast before and after the start of the trial can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hB0jgX_NYCI

Councillor Catherine del Campo, cabinet member for adults, health, and housing services, said: “The School Street trial at Wessex Primary School started in the summer term and the support from parents and residents when it finished was overwhelming, with more families now walking or wheeling to and from school since it started.

Councillor Geoff Hill, cabinet member for highways and transport and customer service centre, added: “It’s fantastic that this scheme will continue with the community's support ahead of the new camera that will provide a longer-term solution.”

The School Street in the Royal Borough is one of more than 180 across the country, all funded through the Active Travel grant.

New guidelines have also been announced by the Government, making it easier for councils to support school streets.

For more information about volunteering at St Adrians Close or to sign up, email schoolstreets@rbwm.gov.uk