Oldham Council is launching a new School Street at Hey with Zion Primary School and St Edwards RC Primary School in Lees this September.
This scheme aims to create a safer environment for local children by reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality during busy school times. It is the first scheme in Greater Manchester to use ANPR cameras for effective enforcement, setting a new standard for school travel in the region.
School Streets restrict motor vehicle access during drop-off and pick-up times, allowing children and parents to safely walk, cycle, or scoot to and from school. This reduction in traffic will enhance safety around the schools and contribute to a more pleasant atmosphere for the entire community.
The School Street will have a soft launch on Wednesday 4th September, where the new traffic measures will begin to be implemented, allowing parents and residents to adjust to the changes. The official complete launch is set for Monday 9th September, when the ANPR cameras will be fully operational. From this date, any parents or drivers who do not comply with the School Street restrictions will receive a warning letter. If they continue to ignore the rules after the warning, they will face a fine. This phased approach ensures everyone has time to adapt while reinforcing the importance of adhering to the new guidelines for the safety of the children.
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: "Ensuring the safety and well-being of our children is our top priority. The School Street scheme at Hey with Zion and St Edwards RC Primary Schools not only enhances safety but also promotes a healthier environment for our young people. We are proud to lead this initiative and set a new standard for school travel in Greater Manchester."
Mr McMahon, Headteacher of St. Edwards RC Primary, a Voluntary Academy, said: "We see the School Street as a fantastic opportunity to encourage healthy and sustainable travel among our children and their families, while also addressing the issues of traffic around both schools. We are grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the council on this important project."
The School Street scheme is a collaborative effort between Oldham Council, the two schools, and the community in Lees to create a better future for our children in Oldham. By encouraging families to leave their cars at home and opt for more sustainable modes of transport, the new School Street aims to foster a sense of community and promote healthier lifestyles for the children, families, and school staff.
If you are eligible for an exemption, please apply now. If you have already applied, please don’t worry if you haven’t received a confirmation yet. We are waiting for final approval to be granted before proceeding with your application.
Exemptions to the traffic restrictions include emergency vehicles, council waste trucks, postal service vehicles, statutory undertakers attending emergency works, school buses, public transport, residents and businesses within the School Street area, Blue Badge holders, and carers and healthcare workers serving properties within the School Street area. Eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for exemptions if they haven't done so already.
For more information on exemptions and to find out if you qualify, visit: Camera enforcement and exemptions | School Streets | Oldham Council.