The School Streets scheme in Solihull, which closes roads outside primary schools during drop-off and pick-up times to improve safety, is set to expand following its success. The initiative, already in place at 10 schools, will be introduced at Coppice Primary School in Coppice Road, subject to approval by cabinet member Councillor Ken Hawkins.
How the Scheme Works
Under the scheme, roads are closed to all traffic except residents with permits and blue badge holders during school run hours. Signs indicate the restricted zone, and a traffic regulation order prohibits vehicles from entering specified areas at: Cranmore Infant School, Haslucks Green Junior School, Marston Green Infant Academy and Wayside, Oak Cottage Primary School, Olton Primary School, Shirley Heath Junior School, St Andrew’s Primary School (Windrush Close), Valley Primary School, Widney Junior School, and Windy Arbor Primary School.
Proven Benefits
In a report ahead of the decision session, council officers stated: “These schemes have been delivered successfully over several years and provide a strong evidence base for future expansion.” Evaluation of the first three schemes—Oak Cottage Primary School, Marston Green Infant Academy, and Hasluck’s Green Junior School—showed clear benefits. Car use for school journeys fell significantly: from 31% to 8% at Oak Cottage, and from 57% to 41% at Marston Green. Residents reported less inconsiderate parking, support strengthened after implementation, and parents noted safer, more pleasant journeys.
Expansion to Coppice Primary School
Councillor Ken Hawkins is recommended to approve the scheme at Coppice Primary School, where 70% of pupils live within one mile. The school supports the proposal, and alternative parking is available for those who must drive. At a previous council meeting, Coun Hawkins said: “Our schemes have been a success in encouraging safer, sustainable journeys to school; reduced parking pressures at school gates; improved air quality and overall created a safer environment for all road users - especially our younger and vulnerable ones.”
Decision Session
The decision session is scheduled for Thursday, July 9, at 6pm, and will be streamed live on the council’s website, solihull.gov.uk.
