Havering Council has approved plans to make seven trial schemes permanent. These came in during the second phase of School Streets in September 2022. They make those roads around the schools safer because of a reduction in pollution and traffic. We want to take a closer look at the whole thing today. Then, if you need help with property investment in Havering, you can talk to us.
How does a school street scheme work?
The schools that took part in the scheme include Parsonage Farm School in Rainham and James Oglethorpe School in Upminster. There is also RJ Mitchell School and Emerson Park Academy in Hornchuch, and Harold Hill’s Drapers Academy.
With a school street scheme, you close roads around the schools to vehicles. You do so at the beginning and end of a day. These restrictions aim to make it simpler for parents, pupils, and carers to walk and cycle to school. At the same time, they want to minimise anti-social behaviour. This is the kind resulting from reckless driving and parking. The restrictions are also enforced with the aid of CCTV cameras.
The council did an online consultation from June 9th to August 4th 2023. The goal was to get feedback from motorists, parents, and other stakeholders.
According to the results, 52% of respondents said the scheme made roads more secure for pedestrians. At the same time, 64% said that it had minimised traffic outside school entrances. Around 51% stated that the scheme had lowered motor pollution. Another 48% said there had been a drop in noise pollution.
There was one other positive detail from the scheme that the report highlighted. It had to do with Redden Court and Harold Wood schools. At these establishments, car use was down by 21% and 20% respectively.
However, the response to the scheme’s overall success was mixed. There were 44% of respondents in favour of the scheme with an equal number against it. If you need the best services for property investment in Havering, contact us today.
Handling objections
The local authority said it was addressing objections too. A major one is relating to dissatisfaction from individuals needing visits from unregistered and registered carers. Officials said this concern is being “managed effectively”. Registered carers are able to apply for exemptions.
Additionally, there were people claiming these schemes resulted in more traffic outside the zones. What’s more, they said that some drivers were parking inconsiderately across driveways.
To overcome some of the issues, the council made proposals to provide a driver education campaign. Furthermore, they aim to increase enforcement once the schemes are permanent.
Officers said residents should familiarise themselves more with the restrictions. As they do so, they will find everything simpler. What’s more, they recommend more localised interventions. These will make zones more acceptable and efficient.
The proposal to make the schemes permanent got authorisation from Cllr Barry Mugglestone. They are a cabinet member for environment.
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So, if you are looking to use the foremost services for property investment in Havering, get in touch with us. We can answer your questions and show how we can help you with assets.
