Play Streets

Anyone interested in the idea can apply to the council – who will carry out the necessary checks to make sure the street is suitable for a temporary closure to through traffic (the council is unable to support applications for main roads, bus routes or where there are no suitable diversion routes). The council will also check that there is nothing else planned that might have an impact e.g. road works. Once this has been done, they’ll provide the traffic signs and cones needed.

Initiatives such as Play Streets provide a space for outdoor play for children and families who might not otherwise have access to parks, green spaces or other play areas. This is crucially important for reducing health inequalities and to support child health and development.

As a school you may be interested in encouraging or supporting  parents / carers / community groups to run Play Street sessions during the school holidays or at weekends. Or you may be interested running a Play Street session during the school day to complement a Stay and Play session or other initiative aimed at encouraging child outdoor activity and play.

Although the road is closed to through traffic during a Play Street session, residents are still allowed vehicle access at all times. Anyone needing to drive into or out of the street will need to travel very slowly and be aware that children and families will be around – signs and cones will remind them of this. Parents and carers also need to remain responsible for the supervision of children or ensure that they  are responsible enough to play safely and move to the pavement if a car needs to come through.

For more information about Play Streets in Bradford, including details of how to apply visit: https://www.bradford.gov.uk/transport-and-travel/highways/play-streets/

You can also find our Frequently Asked Questions page here: Play Streets frequently asked questions | Bradford Council