School streets
Since September 2019, streets outside schools in Birmingham have been closed to motor traffic at the start and end of the school day. Delivered in phases, schemes are now in operation at 21 schools.
This initiative is designed to:
- make the streets outside schools safer at the start and end of the day
- tackle congestion and reduce parking pressures outside schools
- discourage car journeys and encourage walking, wheeling and cycling to school
- improve air quality and create a more pleasant environment for everyone
Schools can express their interest in being considered for a School Street as part of the Safer School Journeys programme. Before submitting an Expression of Interest , please review the guidance below to ensure your school is suitable for this.
Location Suitability
- Most suited to cul-de-sacs or streets with limited access (generally no more than two entry points)
- Main roads and bus routes are usually excluded
- Nearby streets should be able to accommodate any displaced traffic and parking
- Local infrastructure in place to support walking, wheeling and cycling to school
- Identification of any potential ‘Park & Stride’ locations nearby
- Consideration of other nearby traffic generators (e.g. shops, health centres)
School Commitment
- Willingness to provide or recruit volunteer stewards to support School Streets
- Commitment to regularly promote the scheme, including issuing termly reminders
- Indication of support from school staff, parents, residents and local Councillors
To read evaluations of previous phases of the scheme:
Read the CFSS Pilot evaluation report
Read the CFSS Phase 2 evaluation report
To support evidence-based decisions, an auditing process was undertaken to assess suitability and prioritise locations for the future delivery of School Street in Birmingham. Read the CFSS Audit Report September 2023
Page last updated: 15 October 2025
