Colliers Wood parents mark new school street

On Monday, a celebration was held in South Gardens next to the primary school as parents expressed their joy over the new safety measure. 

The introduction of school streets will see cars restricted during the school’s morning drop off and afternoon pick up times, during term times only.

Parents were joined by councillors Martin Whelton and Eleanor Stinger as they marked the new measure, which is set to be implemented in the coming weeks. 

Under the scheme, vehicles will not be allowed to enter the street at these times unless they have been granted an exemption.

MORE: Merton announce 28 school streets

Parent, Daniela Tilbrook organised the event after vowing to take her children to school 10 minutes late to avoid congestion, earlier this year.

Daniela Tilbrook says the area outside of Singlegate Primary school was both an accident waiting to happen, but also a hotbed for air pollution.

She said that the worsening traffic in the cul-de-sac outside the school compelled her to take action.

Speaking about the new school street, Daniela said: "It is so encouraging to see that Merton Council are thinking about the health of our children.

"We need more bold moves like this to tackle the climate crisis and this is a good start.”

MORE: Colliers Wood mum vows to take her kids to school 10 minutes late every day

Another parent said: "It gives us space for social distancing, we no longer have cars idling outside the primary school.

"We can stop and chat and the atmosphere is lovely. We want to thank Merton Council for our school Street."

In total 28 school streets will be rolled out across the borough by October half term.

Residents who live on the roads will be allowed access, as will teachers and those with special needs children who need to be driven to school.

Councillor Martin Whelton, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing and Transport, said: "It is absolutely wonderful to see the school street operation in Singlegate.

"It shows how seriously we take air quality and emissions and environment outside our schools, as Merton declared a climate emergency last year.

"The main priority is is to reduce the number of car journeys and go by more sustainable and active forms of transport like walking and cycling."

He added: "The feedback from schools and parents has been incredibly positive across Merton."

"We are delighted to roll out so many school streets across the borough."

"I am very pleased so far, it has been a huge success."