Creating safer, healthier and less polluted routes to school
What is a School Street?
A School Street is a temporary traffic restriction on roads outside schools during drop-off and pick-up times. These restrictions make it safer for children to walk, cycle or scoot to school, reduce congestion and improve air quality.
Only pedestrians, cyclists and exempt vehicles such as residents, blue badge holders and emergency services are allowed access during restricted times.
School Streets help to:
- Improve road safety for children
- Reduce air pollution around schools
- Encourage active travel and healthier lifestyles
- Create a more pleasant environment for the community
For more information, please see the following websites:
How does it work?
During the restricted hours at school drop-off and pick-up times, access to the streets will be controlled using temporary barriers managed by school staff or volunteers.
The restrictions typically apply Monday to Friday during school term times. Signage will be displayed and all vehicles must travel at walking speed.
Access will still be allowed for residents, workers, school staff, carers and emergency vehicles.
Which schools have School Streets?
Bolton Council is working with schools to introduce School Streets across the borough. The first step is to hold one-day trials at selected schools to assess how well School Streets would work.
Upcoming School Street trial days
- The Gates Primary School, BL5 3QA
Road to be controlled: Bristle Hall Way
Date: Tuesday 17 March 2026
Closure times: 08:30am to 09:00am and 15:00pm to 15:30pm
- St. Bedes Academy, BL3 3LJ
Roads to be controlled: Hurst Street and Back Morris Green Lane
Date: Thursday 19 March 2026
Closure times: 08:30am to 09:00am and 15:00pm to 15:30pm
To check if your child's school is participating or to express interest in joining the scheme, please email us at highways@bolton.gov.uk.
School Streets survey
After each trial day people can complete our survey to feedback on how it went.
Apply for a School Street
If your school is interested in becoming part of the scheme, we can provide guidance and support. Schools, parents, and local communities are encouraged to work together to implement these initiatives.
As part of our support and funding, we can work with schools to create School Streets exemption permits or badges to be displayed in vehicle windscreens for approved exemptions.
To register interest or find out more, please email us at highways@bolton.gov.uk.