School Streets were introduced to Portsmouth during 2021. They open up roads to walking and cycling by temporarily limiting most motorised traffic around schools. This creates safer routes to school and allows the local community to enjoy a safer place to live, study, work and travel. St Jude’s Church of England Primary School and Bramble Infant and Nursery School were the first schools to take part.
School Streets limit the amount of non-essential traffic from entering the roads near schools during drop-off and pick-up. Parents, children, school staff and visitors are encouraged to walk or cycle to school, resulting in a safer, healthier environment which develops cleaner air and reduces traffic congestion and noise in residential areas. Research has shown that pupils who walk and cycle to school are more alert and ready to start the day than those who travel by car.
During a School Street, access is available for residents and business premises on the street, emergency services, school transport, blue badge holders, taxis and carers of residents who live in the street. People with specific requirements can pre-agree access with the head teacher.
We’re working with walking and cycling charity, Sustrans, to manage the scheme. Online and in-person information sessions are held at participating schools ahead of the launch to give residents, parents and pupils a chance to find out more. People can share their experience through a survey which can be found on each school’s website during the trial.
Participating schools will also take part in the Pompey Monster Stomp to School Challenge. Parents and children will walk or cycle to school, guided by Stomper. His digital, seven-week challenge, will guide you and your child/children on a fun journey to school while earning rewards for walking, cycling or scooting* at least three times a week.
King’s Academy College Park was the latest school to take part in School Streets between September and November 2022. Anyone interested in a School Street in their area should contact their local school. Head teachers of Portsmouth schools can work with the council to develop a School Street.
Find out more about the trial by reading our FAQs or contact us schoolstreets@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
To read the findings from the 2021 consultations with parents, carers, school staff and residents visit your city your say
*For a safe journey to school please remember that private e-scooters are illegal on public roads and rental e-scooters are only for one person 18 years or over, with at least a provisional licence.