Road closure guidance simplified to boost children's safety

More children are set to enjoy playing outside safely away from traffic after government rules around closing roads for community events were simplified.

Guidance issued by the Department for Transport (DfT) is being updated to make it easier for residents who want to turn their quiet neighbourhood roads into occasional ‘play streets’.

Play streets, where roads are closed to allow for small events and sports, are not only good for children’s health and happiness, they give them a sense of belonging and encourage other residents to get together, creating greater community cohesion.

The department has issued advice to councils, enabling them to make ‘special event’ orders, which mean roads can be temporarily closed to enable children’s play – and these do not need to be advertised.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “Play streets offer wonderful opportunities for children to get outdoors and for families and communities to get together. A generation ago, it was common to see young people playing out in the street but today it can be a rare sight. That’s why today I’m delighted to be making it easier for those who want to create Play Streets, boosting the health and wellbeing of children, families and communities.”