School Streets trial at Dunstable school aims to reduce congestion and improve air quality
Wednesday, 14 February 2024
We are working with Icknield Lower School to take steps to create a better environment for parents, carers and guardians to drop off and pick up their children from Icknield Lower School.
After engagement with local residents, it has been agreed that this will come forward over a trial period which will see twice-daily road closures on Burr Street in Dunstable, alongside a range of other measures to encourage an increase in pupils walking, scooting and cycling to school.
The initiative, known as ‘School Streets’ will run from 28 February to 24 May. Burr Street will be temporarily closed twice a day, from 8.20am to 9.00am and 2.45pm to 3.30pm. Residents of Burr Street will maintain access at all times, as will emergency services and anyone with accessibility needs.
The initiative aims to improve air quality and create a better environment for pupils, parents and residents. It will also provide a smoother flow for those walking, cycling or scooting, and active travel is being encouraged. Parents and carers doing the school run who live more than three-quarters of a mile away or more can apply for a parking permit via the school. Those living closer are asked to walk, cycle or scoot if they can.
Councillor Tracey Wye, Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, added:
As well as children’s safety, the improvement in air quality as a result of fewer cars – and their engines left running – during these times will benefit children, parents and anyone living in Burr Street. We’ll be able to reduce the emissions created by very short runs and encourage those who can walk the short distances to and from home and school.
Councillor Simon Ford, Executive Member for Highways, said:
First and foremost is the safety of children during school drop-offs and pick-ups. The temporary closure of Burr Street will create a safer environment for pupils and their families. We’ve worked with local people and the school on this, and we really appreciate the community's understanding and cooperation. We’ll continue to monitor and adjust traffic management as needed.