TfL urges children to safely walk, cycle and scoot to school on return to classroom

As many Londoners return to education next month, Transport for London (TfL) is proposing new measures that will help them travel safely and sustainably.

The plans build on the extensive cleaning regime deployed at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, which includes hospital-grade long-lasting disinfectant, and include an additional 200 buses on key routes and traffic reduction near 415 schools to make active journeys to school safer and easier.

Those who are able to walk, cycle or scoot to school are being encouraged to do so, as part of TfL's Streetspace programme. More than £3m has been invested to date in 415 School Street schemes, across 26 boroughs. The aim of the schemes is to make journeys to school safer and easier by limiting car access to school gates at drop off and pick-up times.

Some 22 School Street schemes have been delivered through the Streetspace programme so far, with many more due for completion in the coming weeks.

Aside from TfL’s Streetspace plans, London’s black taxis are also set to begin assisting with disabled and less mobile students also returning to education. London’s black cabs are all wheelchair accessible and provide a safe and clean partition between the driver and passengers.

Claire Mann, TfL's Director of Bus Operations, said: ”Safety is always our priority, which is why we have our extensive cleaning regime that's making our buses and Tubes cleaner than ever.

“As demand is set to grow further with the new academic term, it's vital that we build on our existing measures, such as our Streetspace initiatives, providing pupils and parents with the means to travel safely and an alternative to car use, which would lead to high levels of congestion and pollution.

”Londoners have been truly amazing in recent months in their commitment in following safety guidance, both for their own safety and that of their fellow passengers.

”We're now asking you to walk, cycle or scoot to school where you can as part of this joint effort, and continue to follow these rules as the situation evolves. Everyone else should travel during the quieter times of the day where possible to ensure everyone can travel safely.”