Safer routes FAQ's

How long does it take?

The time taken to install schemes varies from a few months to a number of years.

 Some of the factors that affect how long it takes are:

• Complexity of the works
• Other schemes in the queue within the Council's programme
• Public consultation procedures
• Legally-required procedures
• The time to design the scheme and employ a contractor to build it  

 

Obviously, once the scheme has been agreed we look to progress it as quickly as possible. As you can imagine, it's not always possible to map this out with complete certainty.

For example, proposals usually need to be put to the wider community and quite often different viewpoints and priorities will arise. We will work to resolve any differences but this may take time.

 

Does there have to be an accident before anything is done?

No, Safer Routes to Schools funding is not dependent on an accident record at a site, although it can be an important consideration. We recognise the paradox that some places are seen as so dangerous that no-one walks or cycles and therefore there are no accidents.

 

We are also keen to remove the barriers associated with walking and cycling to school which may well include concerns about personal safety as well as road safety.

Improvements should provide benefits for both the journey to school and the community as a whole.

We are very interested in a dual approach – providing engineering measures within the context of a school travel plan. In this way the pupil's will also receive the education and training that they need to improve their skills and confidence

What do I do if I want my school to benefit?

Work with your school to develop a school travel plan which can then go onto be prioritised for safer routes to schools funding.

The related document list below shows which schools have benefited so far.