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?
Upcoming School Streets Schemes in Bolton
Bolton Council is working with schools to introduce School Streets across the borough. After successful trial days in March 2026, the following schools will be starting their School Streets during school term time.
- Kearsley West Primary School, BL4 9BZ
Road to be controlled: Primrose Street
Start Date: Tuesday 5th May 2026
Days: Monday to Friday (during term time)
Controlled access: 15:00pm to 15:45pm
- St. Bedes Academy, BL3 3LJ
Roads to be controlled: Hurst Street and Back Morris Green Lane
Start Date: Monday 18th May 2026
Days: Monday to Friday (during term time)
Controlled access: 08:30am to 09:00am and 15:00pm to 15:30pm
- Sharples Primary School, BL1 8RX
Road to be controlled: Hugh Lupus Street
Start Date: Monday 8th June 2026
Days: Monday to Friday (during term time)
Controlled access: 08:30am to 09:00am
- The Gates Primary School
Road to be controlled: Bristle Hall Way
Start Date: Tuesday 16th June 2026
Days: Monday to Friday (during term time)
Controlled access: 08:30am to 09:00am and 15:00pm to 15:30pm
Access will still be allowed for residents, workers, school staff, carers, and emergency vehicles.
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.
Apply for a School Street
Due to limited funding, School Streets Experimental Orders are currently in place at only a small number of schools. However, funding may be available in the near future.
To register your interest or find out more, please contact us at highways@bolton.gov.uk.