Council considers expansion of school parking ban

A new parking restriction zone is being considered during drop-off and pick-up at one Derby primary school

Restrictions on motorists parking outside schools in Derby during peak times could be extended.

The city council is consulting on a plan to add a new area to its School Safe Haven Zones, set up to make roads safer and encourage walking and cycling.

A three-month consultation is under way on extending the restrictions to Sheridan Street in Sinfin, where Cottons Farm Primary Academy is based.

Sarah Chambers, city councillor for the ward, said: "After spending every Thursday for six weeks at school arrival and home time, we were able to provide evidence and mitigating factors to submit Cottons Farm for the next trial."

If approved, Sheridan Street will become a pedestrian and cycle zone only between 08:30 and 09:00 and 15:00 to 15:45.

The initiative is already in place in 14 roads with nearby schools.

The council previously said its scheme had "led the way nationally, with other councils raising interest in adopting similar powers", the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The restriction would be implemented in Sheridan Street, where Cottons Farm Primary Academy is based

The scheme was set up following concerns children and parents were unsafe on several roads.

Zones operate outside of schools, using temporary road closures or restrictions to limit the use of cars for school drop-offs and pick-ups.

Enforced by ANPR cameras, with fines of £70, the zones restrict vehicles during peak hours to improve air quality and safety for students.

Data collected in Derby has shown "significant reductions" of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations, with reductions of up to 48.8% in some locations.

Exemptions are allowed for residents, emergency services, and blue badge holders.

The council says it will analyse feedback and determine next steps for the trial.

If the trial is successful, consideration will then be given to making the scheme permanent.

The public consultation closes on Sunday 12 October.