School Streets scheme to include 200 more roads

Vehicles will be banned from an estimated 200 more roads outside schools at certain times under plans to boost walking in London.

The expansion of the School Streets scheme is part of a wider Walking and Wheeling Action Plan, published on Wednesday by the mayor and Transport for London (TfL).

The scheme currently operates at about 800 schools across the capital and that will rise to around 1,000.

A plan to build 1,000 more pedestrian crossings by 2031 is also in the works.

The School Streets scheme sees roads closed outside schools to most motor traffic at drop-off and pick-up times, typically using timed restrictions enforced by signs or cameras, with residents and permit-holders usually exempt.

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) are a more comprehensive traffic-restricting measure, covering whole residential areas and restricting through-traffic permanently using bollards or camera-enforced filters

Christina Calderato, director of transport strategy at TfL, said: "Walking is already at the heart of how Londoners get around, but we know too many people are still put off by safety concerns, poor crossings or inaccessible streets.

"This new plan sets out how we'll change that by making it easier and more pleasant to walk for everyday journeys, whether that's getting to school, the station or the local high street."

The plan supports the mayor's ambition for 80% of trips to be made by walking, cycling or on public transport by 2041.

Other measures include tackling pavement clutter, such as poorly parked dockless bikes, and supporting boroughs to deliver 50 area-wide neighbourhood schemes by 2031.

TfL said it would also strengthen action on women's safety, including more CCTV trials at bus stops, safety audits and night-time transport assessments for new developments.

Wheeling refers to movement at walking pace using wheels, such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs.

London's walking and cycling commissioner, Will Norman, said: "The mayor and I are determined to make walking the safest, easiest and most enjoyable way of getting around London.

"Whether you're popping to the shops or heading for the local train station, walking for shorter journeys is vital for the health and future prosperity of our city."

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