Temporary road closures by schools to cut pollution

Streets outside a number of schools in Leicester are to be temporarily closed to traffic in an effort to cut pollution.

Leicester City Council said vehicles would be excluded from several roads on Thursday 19 June to mark National Clean Air Day.

Schools will use the traffic-free space for sports, games and other activities.

Closures will be in place from 08:00 BST to 16:00 in Magnus Road, Bessingham Close, Richard III Road, Eastfield Road, Hazeldene Road and Bramble Close.

The council said parking, waiting and loading will also be prohibited from 08:00 on Wednesday 18 June until 16:00 the following day on sections of Mundesley Road, Kestrel Lane, Richard III Road, Maidenwell Avenue, Foxglove Road and Laverton Road.

On Thursday, pupils from Castle Mead Academy, in Richard III Road next to the River Soar, will also be ferried to school in a boat as park of a "park and paddle" initiative.

The council's assistant mayor for air quality, Geoff Whittle, said: "Clean Air Day is a chance for schools to take part in some fun activities on traffic-free streets, while delivering an important message about improving air quality.

"It's also a great chance for local workplaces to get involved by promoting the benefits of active travel."

Leicester's hospitals and the University of Leicester are also planning events on the day to encourage staff to take steps to cut air pollution by walking or cycling to work.

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