Local Council in Richmond upon Thames Introduces Eye-Catching Pencil-Shaped Bollards to Deter Traffic Chaos During School Drop-Off and Pick-Up Times

Local councils are implementing innovative approaches to tackle the chaos caused by school drop-off and pick-up times.

One such effort involves installing eye-catching bollards shaped like giant pencils, designed to deter parents from clogging up the streets during school runs and create a safer environment for children.

A Bright Initiative

This vibrant pencil-shaped bollard design is part of the School Streets initiative, which restricts vehicle access on specific roads during busy times.

The borough of Richmond upon Thames has embraced this concept, expanding it council-wide to help alleviate traffic congestion and encourage families to opt for walking, cycling, or public transport when commuting to school.

Mixed Reactions

While many community members have welcomed this colorful initiative, others are expressing frustration.

Critics argue that the changes might merely shift traffic problems to different areas rather than solve them.

After a successful trial at St John the Baptist Primary School, where non-compliance rates were notably high, the council plans to install 17 more pencil bollards and additional signage.

Enhancements for Safety

New gateways to affected streets feature a five-meter deep red resin surface aimed at improving visibility and compliance.

Accompanying the striking pencil bollards are white triangular ‘dragon’s teeth’ markings, designed to guide drivers effectively.

There are exceptions in place; taxis, Royal Mail vehicles, and local businesses will still have access to these designated School Streets.

Evidence of Success

The initial trial at the primary school revealed a significant drop in penalty charge notices (PCNs), indicating a positive shift in driver behavior.

Many supporters of the initiative took to social media to express their approval, labeling the plan as “impressive” and “great.”

However, some skeptics remain, questioning whether the new measures would merely redirect traffic congestion.

Supporting Safety for Children

Proponents argue that the initiative is making a tangible difference in reducing speeding cars near schools and creating a safer environment for children traveling to and from school.

The council has emphasized the success of the School Streets plan, which is also being adopted in other cities across the UK, including Manchester, Sheffield, and Nottingham.

A Growing Movement

Originally developed in Italy in 1989, School Streets programs were first introduced in Scotland in 2015, with Camden being the pioneer in London in 2017.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Services Committee, expressed confidence in the initiative’s ability to create safer zones around schools and promote walking and cycling among families.

A Template for Others

With the installation of signposts and CCTV cameras to monitor compliance, the council believes that the School Streets plan is a resounding success.

Cllr Ehmann remarked that this unique approach has drawn interest from councils across the country and hopes it will serve as a model for future initiatives elsewhere.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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