London to Expand School Streets Programme with 200 Additional Road Closures

Transport for London (TfL) and the Mayor of London have announced plans to extend the capital’s School Streets programme to cover around 200 additional roads as part of a broader push to encourage walking and improve public safety.

The proposals form part of a new Walking and Wheeling Action Plan unveiled on Wednesday, aimed at making streets across London safer, more accessible and more pedestrian-friendly.

Under the expansion, the number of schools operating School Streets measures is expected to rise from roughly 800 to around 1,000 locations across the capital.

Timed traffic restrictions outside schools

School Streets schemes temporarily restrict vehicle access outside schools during drop-off and pick-up periods, helping reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and create safer conditions for pupils and parents.

The restrictions are typically enforced using signage and camera systems, while residents and authorised permit holders are generally exempt.

The initiative differs from Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), which permanently limit through-traffic across wider residential areas using physical barriers or camera-enforced filters.

More crossings and neighbourhood schemes planned

Alongside the School Streets expansion, TfL has also outlined ambitions to install an additional 1,000 pedestrian crossings by 2031.

The wider strategy includes support for boroughs to deliver 50 neighbourhood-wide traffic and accessibility schemes over the next five years.

Officials said the plan aims to remove barriers preventing people from choosing walking or wheeling for shorter journeys, particularly where concerns around safety, accessibility and poor street design remain.

“Wheeling” refers to travelling at walking pace using devices such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs.

Tackling safety and street accessibility

TfL said the programme will also focus on improving safety for women and vulnerable road users.

Planned measures include expanded CCTV trials at bus stops, safety reviews of transport routes and assessments of new developments to improve night-time accessibility.

The strategy additionally targets pavement clutter issues, including the management of poorly parked dockless bicycles and scooters that can obstruct footways.

Supporting London’s transport goals

TfL director of transport strategy Christina Calderato said walking already plays a central role in how Londoners travel, but acknowledged that safety concerns and inaccessible streets still discourage many people from choosing active travel.

She said the new plan is intended to make everyday walking journeys easier and more attractive, whether travelling to schools, stations or local centres.

London’s walking and cycling commissioner, Will Norman, added that improving conditions for walking is critical to both public health and the city’s long-term economic future.

The Walking and Wheeling Action Plan supports the mayor’s wider target for 80% of journeys in London to be made by walking, cycling or public transport by 2041.