Closing down streets so children can play
Summary
In parts of England, some residential streets are temporarily closed to traffic to create safe outdoor play areas for children, called Play Streets. This helps children play freely and safely outside, while also encouraging community connections among neighbors.Key Facts
- Streets like Colenso Mount in Leeds have been closed to cars so children can play safely.
- A survey found nearly half of parents say their children lack safe outdoor play spaces.
- Wales and Scotland require local governments by law to provide enough places for children to play, but England does not.
- A group called Play England wants the government to make councils check if kids have enough time and space to play.
- The government is investing £18 million to reopen play spaces and provide free sessions in new community centers.
- Children today spend half as much time playing outside freely compared to previous generations.
- Play Streets began in Bristol in 2009 to make outdoor play near home a normal activity.
- Parents say Play Streets make them feel safer letting their children play outside and help neighbors connect.
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