School Streets were introduced to Portsmouth during 2021. They temporarily limit most motorised traffic around schools, creating safer routes to school and allow 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 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 and carers of residents who live in the street. People with specific requirements are able to pre-agree access with the head teacher.
We’re working with walking and cycling charity, Sustrans, to manage the scheme. Online 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.
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.
Meon Infant and Junior Schools and St John’s Cathedral Catholic Primary School are participating in Phase 2 of the trial May 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.
Parents, carers, school staff and local residents and businesses can now take part in a survey for the Phase 2 schools. Your feedback is really important as it will help the schools to shape the way they continue to grow their School Streets. You will also help other schools in the city who are interested in developing their own School Street. To take part in the survey, please click on the relevant link below. The surveys are open until 22 July.
St John’s Cathedral Catholic Primary School
Meon Infant and Junior Schools
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.
