11,000 children benefit from safer journeys as they return to school

More than 11,000 children will enjoy safer and healthier journeys when schools across the borough restart after the summer break.

Haringey Council’s fast growing School Streets programme already includes 23 walking, cycling and wheeling zones spanning 6km of roads during start and finish times.

This impressive number will get even bigger with the introduction of the latest Streets for People scheme at Devonshire Hill Nursery and Primary School, revolutionising journeys for hundreds more children at the start of a new academic year.  

The new zone is part of plans to almost treble the number of School Streets in Haringey to 61 by 2026, improving air quality at the school gates for up to 36,000 children and across 21km of roads.  

Cllr Mike Hakata, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment and Transport, said: “As children across the borough return to school, it’s vital they can travel in streets safe for walking and cycling.

“Our rapidly expanding School Streets do just that as part of our comprehensive Streets for People programme, which is focused on reducing traffic, cleaning our air and creating vibrant neighbourhoods for everyone.

“I’m delighted we’re introducing a new School Street at Devonshire Hill and another community will have the opportunity for healthier and active lives.”   

The school run makes up around 25 per cent of all traffic and can be one of the most congested parts of the day when travelling around the borough.  For those without access to a car, which in Haringey is the majority, that means getting to and from school is the most dangerous time of the day. 

Only people walking and cycling, and those with vehicle exemption permits, are eligible to enter the zone while the School Street is in operation.

As part of the council’s comprehensive Streets for People programme, engagement is underway on the experimental School Street at Highgate Junior School.

Residents, parents and community groups can share their views ahead of a decision on whether to make the zone permanent.  To have your say, go to the School Streets web pages.  The consultation closes on 29 September 2023.