Torbay school benefits from new social distancing scheme
It's hoped the 'School Street' initiative will create a safe and clean environment for schoolchildren.
Last updated 11th Nov 2020
Curledge Street Academy in Paignton is the first school in Torbay to benefit from the 'School Street' scheme, to assist social distancing.
With school buildings on both sides of the road and narrow pavements, the Highways and Transport teams was asked to consider the option of using the carriageway area for pedestrians.
It was also urged to potentially ban vehicles during certain parts of the day, to assist with social distancing at school drop-off and pick-up times.
Since Monday 7 September, a Traffic Regulation Order has been in place to prevent vehicles entering Curledge Street from Mid Vale Road between 08.30am and 9.30am and 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
The restrictions do not prevent vehicles from entering Curledge Street from anywhere to the west of the school and exiting via Fisher Street.
'The first of its kind within Torbay'
Councillor, Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Servies, Torbay Council, said: “We have been investigating School Street schemes for some time, with a view to implementing some in the future.
"As a result of a request by Curledge Street Academy and COVID-19 we were asked to consider implementing the scheme sooner rather than later.
"The introduction of this School Street will be the first of its kind within Torbay, with more sites also under consideration”.
Signs notifying pedestrians and motorists will be in place during the road closure times.
School Streets are also being considered at Furzeham Primary and Nursery School and Roselands Primary School - both in Paignton.