WINSFORD families are being encouraged to let their children walk, cycle or scoot to school next month to help ease congestion on the town’s roads.

Guidance on social distancing for coronavirus means there is reduced capacity on public transport, and Cheshire West and Chester Council wants to prevent a surge in cars on the road.

Residents are also being asked to plan their journeys ahead and travel at quieter times where possible, with CWAC hoping to maintain the fall in traffic and air pollution enjoyed so far in the pandemic.

Cllr Bob Cernik, cabinet member for children and families, said: “As children and young people return to school in September, we want to make sure that they have the best start to the academic year as possible.

“That's why we are encouraging families to think ahead and consider active modes of transport when planning their journey to and from school, such as travelling on foot, bike or scooter.

Knutsford Guardian:

“If that's not possible, and you need to use a car to get to school, could you sensibly park away from the school entrance and walk the last 10 minutes to school?”

All year groups are due to return to schools and colleges in September for the start of the new academic year.

Free home to school transport will continue for children entitled to it, with enhanced hygiene measures in place.

“The council is committed to supporting schools and families to ensure children can safely return to school in the autumn term,” added Cllr Cernik.

“By working together, schools and their communities can reduce congestion on all forms of transport, limit the number of cars at the school gates and reduce air pollution – supporting our ambition to be a carbon neutral borough.”

CWAC recently secured £161,000 from the Government to improve walking and cycling routes in the borough.

Both temporary and permanent infrastructure is now being installed to encourage active travel using this cash.