Frome's 18-month Safer Streets trial begins today
There's a number of changes to try and increase the numbers of pupils cycling and walking to school
Last updated 22nd Apr 2024
The Frome Safer Streets trial starts today - which aims to make it easier for pupils at four primaries to walk and cycle to school.
There'll be a new 20 mile an hour zone and closures at Broadway, Oakfield Road and Park Road during school pick up and drop offs.
New bike racks, seating, planters and traffic calming measures have been installed and in the coming weeks a design - made by the children themselves - will be printed onto the carriageway highlighting the trial.
If successful, it's thought other places may follow suit.
There's more all about the trial here
Flo Marshall, Head of Design & Engineering for the South of England at Sustrans, said: “Sustrans is delighted to see this Safer School Streets scheme become reality, creating street environments that prioritise people over motor traffic.
“Safer School Streets can and should be about more than simply managing traffic. They create opportunities for everyone to get around more easily and safely, whether that be walking, wheeling or cycling. They create space for children to have greater social interaction, places to stop and rest, plants and trees for biodiversity, reduce vehicle dominance, and create streets that are not just safer for children, but safer for everyone.
“These proposals have been collaboratively designed with the community since autumn 2021 and reflect local people’s aspirations for a safer school run and improved streets. Research shows that most parents and local residents support the idea of School Streets, and this support usually grows after any trial period.”