February 25, 2026 - 182 views
A new School Streets pilot scheme is being rolled out by Conwy County Borough Council in a bid to make journeys to school safer for children in Penmaenmawr.
The trial will take place outside Ysgol Pencae from 2 March to 20 March, operating Monday to Friday during peak drop-off and pick-up times.
Graiglwyd Road, between Conwy Old Road and the school, will be closed from 8.15am to 9am and again from 2.45pm to 3.45pm. Access will be maintained for residents, Blue Badge holders and county-arranged taxis.
School Streets are designed to temporarily restrict traffic outside school gates at the busiest times of day. The aim is to improve road safety, encourage walking and cycling, and reduce air pollution.
National figures show why councils are increasingly turning to such measures. Department for Transport data consistently highlights that the hours around 8am–9am and 3pm–4pm are among the highest risk times for child pedestrian casualties. In recent years, hundreds of children across the UK have been injured annually during the school run, with congested roads, illegal parking and poor visibility identified as contributing factors.
Road safety charities have also raised concerns about inconsiderate parking near school gates. Vehicles stopping on zig-zag lines, mounting pavements or blocking driveways can significantly reduce sightlines for young pedestrians, making it harder for children to see oncoming traffic — and for drivers to see them.
Beyond safety, air quality is another concern. Studies have shown pollution levels can spike sharply outside schools at drop-off and pick-up times due to idling engines and concentrated traffic. Children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution because their lungs are still developing.
School Streets schemes have already been introduced in parts of Wales and across the UK, with many reporting reductions in traffic volumes and an increase in walking, scooting and cycling.
Conwy County Borough Council says the Ysgol Pencae trial will be monitored closely, with feedback gathered from parents, residents and the school community before any decision is made about making the scheme permanent.
The authority hopes the pilot will create a calmer, safer environment outside the school gates — helping children start and finish their school day more safely while promoting healthier, more active travel habits.
