Volunteers needed to help limit traffic around schools during busy times

The schools involved are Belvoirdale Community Primary School, Saint Luke’s Primary School and the Latimer Primary School.

The four-week trial of the ‘school streets’ programme, will start after the summer holidays at Belvoirdale Community Primary School in Coalville, Saint Luke’s Primary School in Thurnby, and the Latimer Primary School in Anstey.

Volunteers will have to cordon off the road at specific times which will limit the traffic outside the schools creating a safe space for children to walk, cycle, scoot or ‘park and walk’ to school, as well as tackling traffic congestion and air quality.

All the kits and training will be given to the volunteers.

Councillor Ozzy O' Shea, the cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "I’m pleased that we’re trialling this scheme as a way to tackle congestion and the whole host of issues we experience outside the school gates.

"School streets can be one way in which we lessen these issues and make the school run easier, healthier and safer for everyone. I’m glad this trial will investigate this potential solution further and look forward to seeing its results."

Residents will still be able to use the road for access using a permit.

The trial will take place for four weeks from 30 August to the end of September.

The schools were chosen on the basis of the practicality of road closures. 

 Richard Dax, the headteacher at Belviordale Primary, said: “Children come to Belvoirdale, knowing that they can learn about our fascinating community and the wider world, safely. 

“This includes the journey, to and from school. Belvoirdale is proud to be part of the school streets campaign.”

To find out more about the school streets trial, including specific proposed times for each school, go to the Choose How You Move website.Opens another website in new window  To volunteer to take part in the trial, apply on the Choose How You Move website at www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/school-streets-volunteerOpens another website in new window