Now that most children are back at school, BCP Council is hoping to persuade more parents, carers and young people to walk, cycle or scoot to the school gates.

Last year the council sought to build on the positive behaviours seen during the pandemic reminding people who have enjoyed exploring their local area to continue to be more active, spend quality time with their children and embrace a slower pace of life on the way to school.

As part of this campaign and to encourage an increased uptake of cycling, funded through a government grant a Sustrans Bike-It Plus officer has been appointed to work initially with 12 local schools and engage directly with pupils, parents, and the wider school community. In addition, Dr Bike cycle maintenance and upkeep sessions will be starting this month at Moordown St John’s and Muscliff Primary school, with proposals to extend this offer to more schools in the future.

For those living further afield who need to use buses to get to school, also with government support, the council has commissioned 34 additional bus services. These ensure that sufficient space is available on the main bus network for other passengers including key workers. Face coverings remain mandatory on public and dedicated school transport for over 11s unless exempt. If it is essential to travel by car, people are also encouraged to consider parking but leaving the car further away from school and walking for at least part of the journey.

Cllr Mike Greene, portfolio holder for Transport and Sustainability, said,  “With half of all school journeys being two miles or less, we encourage everyone who can walk, cycle or scoot to give it a try this spring. The health benefits of regular exercise and fresh air are well known. It can also help your little ones to get their 60 minutes of recommended exercise a day.”

The council is to coordinate the Sustrans Big Pedal event in April and Living Streets National Walk to School Week in May.