The Bath and North East Somerset Green Party is pushing for the School Streets Initiative, a measure to boost children's safety and promote active travel by restricting traffic around schools during peak times.

School Streets restrict traffic around schools during drop-off and pick-up times, reduce congestion, improve air quality, and create safer environments for children. They are already successfully implemented in neighbouring areas such as Frome and Bristol and West Somerset.

The Green Party has taken significant steps by proposing two budget amendments to the council. Additionally, they are advocating for a comprehensive circulation plan and advancing Liveable Neighbourhood schemes, demonstrating their commitment to fostering safer, more sustainable communities.

Somerset has recently launched its first School Street trial involving five schools, while B&NES has not yet implemented such initiatives, potentially missing out on significant benefits for the communities.

Councillor Joanna Wright, Green Group leader at B&NES Council, said: “School Streets is a cost-effective solution that enjoys broad support because it benefits children and reduces traffic disruption outside school hours. A significant amount of traffic in B&NES comes from school journeys. Many of these are short trips that could be done by walking, wheeling, or cycling if people felt it was safe to do so.”

In BANES, School Streets could be funded through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement as part of the Liveable Neighbourhoods programme. At least three proposed Liveable Neighbourhoods - Charmouth Road, Oldfield Lane, and Mount Road - include schools that could benefit from this scheme.

Councillor Wright highlighted the challenges schools face with limited resources and staff, which can hinder their ability to commit to such initiatives without clear guidance and support from the council.

Dom Tristram, Green Party MP candidate for Bath, said: "The Green Party’s work within B&NES demonstrates our commitment to long-term infrastructure that makes our streets safer and supports active travel.

“Our vision for a healthier, more sustainable B&NES is not driven by elections but by a steadfast dedication to our community's wellbeing. Implementing a comprehensive circulation plan is essential for the success of these initiatives, something critically lacking in the current administration's approach.

“The Green Party remains dedicated to creating a safer, more sustainable future for all BaNES residents. We call on the council to take decisive action and prioritise implementing School Streets as part of a comprehensive strategy to enable active travel and create liveable neighbourhoods.”