Caerphilly Cabinet have recently endorsed the recommendation that the experimental traffic regulation orders at three primary schools within the borough be made permanent.
The implementation of pedestrian and cycle zones were initially made on an experimental basis in September 2020, after funding was received from Welsh Government’s Local Sustainable Transport Response Fund; with the schemes being in force for a period of 18 months.
The three primary schools that were selected are listed below:
- Libanus Primary School in Blackwood
- Risca Primary School
- Twyn Primary School in Caerphilly
The schools were chosen as their locations were deemed feasible for the measures and the necessary signage and access requirements can be achieved at each of the sites.
All residents and teachers are allocated permits allowing them an exemption to drive along the affected streets during the closure period. Blue badge holders are also exempt from the restrictions.
Unfortunately, Gwent Police do not have adequate resources to provide the level of enforcement that the schemes require to be wholly effective. In view of this, no new/additional School Street schemes will be implemented due to the additional pressure that this would put on Gwent Police’s resources as well as the potential criticism that the council could endure from the lack of enforcement.
The experimental schemes have been in-situ for approximately 17 months and throughout this period the public have been given the opportunity to comment / object to the measures as part of the experimental traffic regulation order process.
In conclusion, the schemes were generally well received within their respective communities and most of the survey respondents felt that the schemes provided some overall benefits and that they should remain in place.
Councillor Jamie Pritchard, Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Property commented, “Our priority has always been to make the streets of the County Borough safer for pedestrians and motorists. For many schools across the County Borough the school run can cause traffic congestion, parking issues and most importantly, road safety concerns, so reducing the volume of traffic next to our schools is vital for the safety of our pupils, parents and staff.
“On June 4th 2019, Caerphilly Council also declared a Climate Emergency and it is important that we do everything we can to reduce carbon emissions across the borough. Approving the permanent traffic regulation orders at three primary schools will help contribute towards this.”
