Three more schools in Leeds will benefit from having a School Street this September, joining 12 other schools who have had them since 2020.
Blenheim Primary School, Birchfield Primary School and Bramhope Primary School have introduced School Streets as part of the new phase of the Leeds School Streets programme.
School Streets make roads outside schools into pedestrian and cycle only zones at the times displayed on the signs. This helps to make the space outside school more pleasant for those choosing to walk, cycle and wheel to school. They can also help to reduce children’s exposure to air pollution and keep them safe from traffic. Leeds City Council Road Safety trainers deliver a range of interactive lessons in schools throughout the year and new School Street schools will receive pedestrian and scooter training during the initial weeks. Last year 14,400 children received road safety and sustainable travel education.
September also sees the return of ‘Scootember’ in Leeds schools. Last year 2,500 primary school pupils received training to be able to scoot safely to and from school. In celebration of Scootember and launch of the three new School Streets, Leeds City Council’s executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, Councillor Helen Hayden visited Blenheim primary school to see the School Street in operation and award prizes of a new scooter and helmet to two lucky pupils.
Read more about how children are encouraged to travel more actively here.