La Houguette Primary School will become the second site to have a permanent ‘school street’ at drop off and pick up times after a “successful” year-long trial.

It is the second school in Guernsey to receive a permanent adjustment to roads nearby, prohibiting access for most vehicles during peak periods, after St Martin’s Primary first brought the concept to the island in 2023.

Access to Rue de L’Arquet in St Peter’s is now restricted on school days between 08:00 and 09:00, and 14:30 and 15:30 except for pedestrians, bicycles, emergency vehicles, and people who live on the road. 

Claire Judd, La Houguette Primary School Headteacher, said the trial had been a “wonderful experiment” that has improved safety for those travelling to school.

“It’s important to remember it was the pupils who instigated this positive change back in May 2024, and their initiative has encouraged a large cohort of students and parents to travel actively to and from school – forming healthy habits that will last a lifetime,” she added.

Paul James, Traffic and Highway Services Road Safety Officer, said the department was pleased with how school streets were being “rapidly adopted.

“With two now permanently in place and another two in trial, it’s been great to witness the positive reception from those who benefit. Encouraging the use of alternative transport by making it safer to walk or cycle is a key part of our objective.”

Official trials are underway on roads near Les Beaucamps and St Sampson’s high schools. If deemed successful, Environment & Infrastructure will make those permanent changes after a year.

St Martin’s Primary was the first to see a trial and it was made permanent in 2023 which teachers and parents said led to a safer and healthier morning rush and pick-up. 

The trial along La Vielle Rue, near the Baubigny Schools was launched last September. It was instigated by St Sampson’s High but also benefits pupils at Le Murier and Capelles Primary.

A trial along Ruette des Deslisles near Les Beaucamps High School followed last year.

Any feedback on the ongoing school street trials in St Sampson’s and the Castel can be sent to Traffic and Highways Services via email to traffic@gov.gg or by post to Edward T Wheadon House, Le Truchot, St Peter Port, GY1 3WH.