Summary
- Respondents are generally supportive of the scheme, with many enjoying the more pleasant atmosphere created. However, there is a proportion of respondents who are strongly opposed
- Overall opinions are split, with c.50% strongly in favour of both a continuation of the trial and a permanent school street closure, and c.25% strongly against
- For many, the concept is a good idea, but the practical application of the scheme has some drawbacks and unintended consequences on surrounding streets, as well as making their own life logistics more complicated
- There is slightly more negative sentiment amongst respondents from the Meon schools (Wave 2) and King’s Academy College Park (Wave 3), however, there is always a majority in favour
- Congestion on all school streets in the trial is better for 69% of total respondents, but it has displaced traffic onto the surrounding streets with parents seemingly still using their cars but parking slightly further away
- Congestion in the area has increased due to its impact on the flow of traffic on nearby busy roads, and inconsistent implementation of the closure in some cases (notably wave 3)
- Opinion is divided on whether air quality has been improved by the scheme with many feeling it has just moved the problem elsewhere
- Vehicle removal has improved safety for children for 63% of parents (when still with an adult, total sample)
- Almost 60% agree that the street became ‘accessible’ whilst just less than half agreed it had made the street ‘an attractive space to be’
- 55% of respondents agree that the street is a ‘more sociable space for children’ (total sample)
- Around 20% of children changed their method of travel to be more active during the trial, with scooting, skating and parking & striding all becoming more frequent choices amongst that group.
- More data is needed to measure whether any permanent behaviour change has been achieved i.e. after the trial has ended
- There was a large drop in car usage c.40% less amongst those reporting a change in method of travel
- Around 40% of respondents downloaded the Stomp to School app, and of those almost 60% agree that it has encouraged their children to use more active travel and will continue to use it
The problems the school street trial tries to address such as road safety, congestion, air quality, and reducing journeys by car, are complex and require a multi-pronged approach to provide effective solutions. School street closures form an important part of that approach and can continue to be refined and improved.
