New traffic restrictions proposed around Romford primary school

Havering Council opened its consultation on a ‘school street’ for Gidea Park Primary School in Lodge Avenue on April 3.

A school street scheme restricts motorised traffic from non-residents’ vehicles on streets around the entrance to schools at opening and closing times.

For example, a ‘school street’ is in operation in Salisbury Close and Faith Close between 8am and 9.30am, 2.30pm and 4pm to support Squirrels Heath Infant and Junior school in Romford.

A total of 10 schemes have already been introduced by Havering Council covering 14 schools in the borough.

The consultation on a ‘school street’ for Gidea Park Primary School will close on April 23. Visit https://consultation.havering.gov.uk/environment/850a027a/ to take part.

On the benefits of ‘school streets’, Havering Council leader Cllr Ray Morgon, leader said in August 2022: “A School Street Scheme offers an opportunity to help improve the quality of air around a school and its surrounding community, help towards better road safety.

“It’s a chance to encourage more active ways of going to and from school.

“We understand that some parents have to drive their children to school by car, as a result of the considerable distance that they live from their school.

“We’re nevertheless encouraging pupils and their families to walk and cycle more for healthier lifestyles.

“The general wellbeing of everyone in the community with less congestion and traffic in these areas during the school run, will be highly beneficial.”