Residents, students and local partners came together on 26 March morning for a successful School Street trial on Spring Bridge Road, outside William Hulme Grammar School.
The temporary road closure, led by student Youth Travel Ambassadors and supported by Transport for Greater Manchester, created a safer, calmer environment at the school gates during the busy morning drop-off.
The event brought together parents, school staff, residents, Whalley Range Councillors and Dame Sarah Storey, Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, to discuss the challenges of congestion, road safety and parking pressures in the area, and to explore longer-term solutions.
Students played a central role, leading engagement on the day and sharing the work they have been doing to promote walking, wheeling and cycling to school. The morning saw positive and constructive conversations with parents and neighbours, alongside valuable feedback gathered by students to inform next steps.
Cllr Aftab Razaq said:
“It was great to see many volunteers coming together to support the School Street trial. There were really positive conversations on the day, and it’s encouraging to see students taking an active role in shaping how their community travels to school.”
Cllr Angeliki Stogia said:
“Having listened closely to local residents and the school, I will continue to do so as we work towards a permanent scheme here. Dangerous pavement parking is affecting neighbours, while families rightly want safer streets for children walking to school. Thursday’s trial was a really positive step, and I am focused on using what we have learned to take practical, balanced action. There’s no silver bullet, but by working together we can make meaningful improvements for everyone.”
Following the success of the trial, the project team will continue to encourage friendly, constructive conversations about the school run and the local street environment, ensuring the community’s voice shapes the next steps.
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