Luton Borough Council

29/08/2023 - Traffic restrictions for pupil safety to be implemented at Denbigh Primary School

Roads surrounding a school in Luton will be part of a Traffic Exclusion Zone (TEZ) scheme, to help improve safety and air quality in the area.

The TEZ, which will restrict the use of vehicles at drop off and pick up times, aims to reduce the high levels of traffic congestion around each school, improving road safety and the quality of air inhaled by pupils. The scheme will also help encourages children, parent and carers to either walk, cycle or scoot to school.

Commencing on 4 September 2023 and initially running as an 18 month pilot, the scheme will affect Denbigh Road between its junction with Cavendish Road and Ascot Road, Beaumont Road (full length) and Cavendish Road from its junction with Denbigh Road to its junction with Leagrave Road.

Unauthorised traffic will be restricted from travelling on these roads between 8am and 9.15am and 2:30pm and 4pm, Monday to Friday, during term time only. Residents, school employees, disabled students who require special access and emergency service vehicles will be exempt from these restrictions.

Councillor Javed Hussain, portfolio holder for Sustainable Development and Highways at Luton Council, said “The health, wellbeing and safety of schoolchildren in Luton is our top priority. Many children in Luton often walk to school in areas of high traffic, resulting in an increased risk to their safety when crossing roads and from air pollution.”

“The TEZ pilot has therefore been introduced to reduce congestion, improve road safety and ensure cleaner air around the school. I would like to thank the school and residents for their cooperation in launching the pilot. We hope that the scheme will be a success at Denbigh Primary School and be the basis of a further rollout to other selected schools in the town.”

Signs will be placed at the entry points to the roads included in the scheme informing drivers that these named streets will be pedestrian zones between the stated hours and days. The scheme will be enforced by C.C.T.V cameras and unauthorised vehicles that use the road during the restricted periods will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice.

Residents of the areas affected can apply for a permit by visiting Luton.gov.uk/parking.