Frequently asked questions
I’m a parent/carer – can I apply for an exemption?
Parents and carers dropping children off at school are not eligible for an exemption.
Exemptions are only available to:
- Blue Badge holders (including pupils or parents/carers with a valid Blue Badge)
- residents living within the school street zone
- school staff.
Parents and carers who need to drive can still do so, but will need to park legally outside of the restricted zone and complete the final part of their journey on foot.
How will you know if the scheme has been successful?
We will monitor the school street to assess its impact during the pilot period. This will include:
- observing whether the street is calmer, safer, and less congested during operating times
- collecting data on how pupils travel to and from school (e.g. walking, cycling, scooting, or driving)
- monitoring traffic flow and vehicle speeds in the surrounding area
- reviewing air quality levels.
Feedback from residents, parents, and the school community will also play an important role in evaluating the scheme.
Does this scheme penalise parents or ban driving to school?
No. The scheme does not ban driving to school entirely.
Instead, it restricts vehicle access on streets immediately outside the school during peak times. This helps to create a safer environment for children at the school gates.
Parents and carers can still drive if needed, but must park outside the restricted zone and walk the final part of the journey.
Could this create congestion on surrounding streets?
We recognise concerns about potential displacement of traffic.
The aim of the scheme is to reduce overall car use for school journeys by encouraging more people to walk, cycle, or scoot. We will:
- monitor traffic levels on neighbouring roads
- work with the school to promote active travel initiatives
- review the scheme and make adjustments if necessary.
Experience from other school streets shows that, over time, many families choose alternative, more sustainable ways to travel.
Who is paying for the scheme?
The scheme is funded through the council’s Local Implementation Plan (LIP) allocation from Transport for London (TfL).
School Streets are a cost-effective measure that deliver improvements to road safety, air quality, and the overall school environment.
Will residents still be able to access their homes?
Yes. Residents who live within the school street zone can apply for an exemption, allowing them to access their property during operating hours.
Once approved, their vehicle registration will be added to the system to prevent any penalty charges.