Traffic restrictions at Tottenham primary school set to cut pollution and boost safety

Haringey Council has moved to protect pupils at Devonshire Hill Primary School, reports Simon Allin, Local Democracy Reporter

A primary school in Tottenham will join a council-led scheme designed to cut traffic and boost walking and cycling.

Devonshire Hill Primary School in Weir Hall Road will become part of Haringey Council’s ‘school streets’ initiative, which aims to improve road safety at pick-up and drop-off times.

Traffic restrictions will be introduced along a section of Weir Hall Road preventing motor vehicles from using the street between 8.30am and 9.15am and 2:30pm and 3:45pm, Monday to Friday, during term times.

Cameras will be used to enforce the temporary traffic bans, with fines issued for those caught breaking the rules without an exemption.

According to a report presented to a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, one of the main reasons behind the £90,000 scheme is Enfield Council’s recent introduction of traffic-reduction measures in roads surrounding North Middlesex Hospital in Edmonton.

It reveals that a proposed bus gate in Bull Lane, which forms part of the Enfield Council-led scheme, could significantly increase traffic in Weir Hall Road.

The report adds that Devonshire Hill Primary School supports the measures and 42% of those who responded to a consultation were positive or very positive about the proposals, with the greatest support coming from parents and pupils. A separate paper on the consultation reveals 56% viewed the scheme negatively.

Exemptions will be available for several groups, including residents and businesses based in the affected area and Blue Badge holders who need to access the street.

The council has so far introduced 23 school streets covering nearly 6km of the borough’s roads, and it is currently consulting on a further 15.

Haringey Council confirmed the school street in Weir Hall Road was approved by cabinet members.

Speaking after the meeting, Mike Hakata, deputy council leader and cabinet member for climate action, environment and transport, said the school run accounts for around a quarter of all traffic, making it “the most dangerous time of day for most children”.

He added: “School streets not only reduce road danger but incentivise healthier ways to get to school. With 35% of year six children in Haringey classed as overweight or obese, this can go a long way in addressing the borough’s health inequalities.

“I’m delighted this streets for people scheme will give another community the opportunity for healthier and active lives.”

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