Frome’s Safer School Streets scheme is here to stay, following the end of an 18-month trial period. Frome’s scheme was spearheaded by Frome Town Council, via funding from Active Travel England and in partnership with Somerset Council and active travel charity Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans).
Following a review of quantitative data collected during the trial, and the results of FTC’s town-wide perception survey, the Traffic Regulation Order has been made permanent by Somerset Council, as the Highways Authority. This means that the timed road closures, 20mph limit and traffic-calming measures in the areas around Oakfield, Trinity and Critchill schools, and on Park Road near Avanti Park School will remain on a permanent basis.
CCTV footage of the Park Road zone near Avanti Park School shows a significant improvement since the start of the scheme, with an average 36% reduction in traffic volume at drop off and pick up times. 24-hour traffic survey data collected by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans) in October 2022 and October 2024 demonstrates a reduction in average speed along part of the new 20mph zone on Somerset Road and Oakfield Road. The data from the town council’s surveys also shows majority approval for the continuation of the scheme, plus a self-reported increase in active travel to school from parents since the pre-trial survey.
Cllr Anita Collier said “We’re pleased to see the traffic order for Safer School Streets made permanent, and to hear from a majority of survey respondents about the positive impact the scheme has had for them. In particular, the high approval rating from parents and schools is an endorsement of the project, from the people who stand to benefit most from safer travel to and from school. We’re also delighted to see the positive impact of the new zebra crossing on The Butts, which was only possible because of School Streets. Analysis of narrative feedback across both surveys, plus traffic monitoring data that demonstrates a reduction in traffic speed and volume, justify the retention of the scheme. There’s still a repeat of the road safety audit to come from Somerset, but we’re glad to have reached this important milestone.”
Cllr Carla Collenette said “The conversation doesn’t end here: we know that some areas of the scheme are more successful than others and that some challenges remain. We are still listening and keen to work with the community and our partners at Somerset Council to ensure the investment in Safer School Streets can keep delivering in the longer term. Thank you to everyone who has supported the scheme and adapted their journeys to make the roads safer around our schools.”
Cllr Richard Wilkins, lead councillor for Transport and Waste Services at Somerset Council, said “Making Safer School Streets permanent is a clear statement of our commitment to safer, healthier journeys for children and families. This is about creating streets where walking and cyclingfeels natural and safe, and where the school run doesn’t come with unnecessary risk. We’re proud to work with partners and the community to deliver a scheme that improves safety, supports active travel, and helps shape a more sustainable future for Frome.”
Comments on the scheme are welcome at any time by email to engage@frometowncouncil.gov.uk.
