Safer School Streets scheme made permanent

Frome’s Safer School Streets scheme has been made permanent following the end of an 18-month trial. 

The trial scheme, launched in April 2024, has seen timed road closures around Trinity First School, Oakfield Academy, Critchill School and Park Road leading up to Avanti Park School during school pick-up and drop-off times. 

In addition to the road closures, a new 20mph zone was applied as part of the scheme across a wider area, and traffic-calming measures were added to the roads around the zone, including ground markings and planters. 

The scheme was spearheaded by Frome Town Council via funding from Active Travel England, and in partnership with Somerset Council and the active travel charity Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans). 

Following a review of quantitative data collected during the trial and the results of Frome Town Council’s town-wide perception survey, the Traffic Regulation Order has been made permanent by Somerset Council as the Highways Authority. 

This means the timed road closures, 20mph limit and traffic-calming measures in the areas around the schools will now remain on a permanent basis. 

Cllr Anita Collier said, “We’re pleased to see the traffic order for Safer School Streets made permanent and to hear from a majority of survey respondents about the positive impact the scheme has had for them. In particular, the high approval rating from parents and schools is an endorsement of the project from the people who stand to benefit most from safer travel to and from school. We’re also delighted to see the positive impact of the new zebra crossing on The Butts, which was only possible because of School Streets. 

“Analysis of narrative feedback across both surveys, plus traffic monitoring data that demonstrates a reduction in traffic speed and volume, justifies the retention of the scheme. There’s still a repeat of the road safety audit to come from Somerset, but we’re glad to have reached this important milestone.” 

Throughout the trial, residents shared mixed feedback on the scheme, with some reporting a ‘continued problem’, saying the traffic issues are being pushed onto other streets. Others have raised concerns that they consider the colourful road markings to be ‘confusing’ for children, while others have praised the scheme as ‘an effective way to reduce traffic build-up’. 

Cllr Carla Collenette said, “The conversation doesn’t end here. We know that some areas of the scheme are more successful than others and that some challenges remain. We are still listening and keen to work with the community and our partners at Somerset Council to ensure the investment in Safer School Streets can keep delivering in the longer term. Thank you to everyone who has supported the scheme and adapted their journeys to make the roads safer around our schools.” 

Cllr Richard Wilkins, lead councillor for Transport and Waste Services at Somerset Council, said, “Making Safer School Streets permanent is a clear statement of our commitment to safer, healthier journeys for children and families. This is about creating streets where walking and cycling feels natural and safe, and where the school run doesn’t come with unnecessary risk. We’re proud to work with partners and the community to deliver a scheme that improves safety, supports active travel, and helps shape a more sustainable future for Frome.” 

Comments on the scheme are welcome at any time by email to engage@frometowncouncil.gov.uk.