School traffic ban piloted

A traffic ban in the streets surrounding primary schools is being tested in selected schools in Edinburgh.

It is hoped the scheme will encourage parents to allow their children to walk to school by creating a safer environment for them.

Enforcement will be introduced after a trial of two weeks. Residents within the exclusion zone will need a special permit to drive in or out of the street while restrictions are in place.

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Pedestrian’s campaign group Living Streets welcomed the move. Schools and Projects Coordinator Chris Thompson said he expected other councils across the UK to follow.

“By closing the immediate streets outside school gates, the City of Edinburgh Council and participating schools are sending a resounding message that walking to school, even for the last few minutes, is good for health and the city’s environment,” he said.

Although 30 schools expressed an interest in trialling the idea, only 11 will eventually take part. Six primary schools are included in the first of two phases – Abbeyhill, Colinton, Cramond, Duddingston and St John’s RC with Sciennes starting in October.

The second phase of the pilot is due to begin in March and will be implemented at Towerbank, St Peter’s, Clermiston and Bonaly Primary Schools.