Drivers face £160 fine in London as hundreds of road closures block access to cars

Drivers have been warned they could face fines of up to £160 across the capital under new measures by blocking cars from several roads.

The warning comes after Transport for London announced plans to increase the number of School Streets in the capital from around 800 to roughly 1,000 as part of a wider push to encourage walking and cycling.

The initiative sees roads outside schools closed to most traffic during drop-off and pick-up times, and is enforced through cameras and timed restrictions.

It aims to reduce congestion, improve air quality and make streets safer for children travelling to and from school.

However, motoring experts have warned drivers could easily be caught out if they fail to notice the restrictions or assume rules are the same in every borough.

Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, said motorists who use familiar routes every day may not realise that restrictions have changed.

He said: "Most drivers aren't deliberately flouting the rules, especially if they're on autopilot and using the same route they've used for years and haven't noticed the signage has changed.

"However, the School Streets scheme is continuing to grow, and it's essential to stay up to date with these restrictions to avoid a costly fine."

Fines for driving through a School Street during restricted hours vary depending on the council, but motorists can face penalties ranging from £65 to £160.

Restrictions usually apply Monday to Friday during school term time, although hours can vary depending on the location.

Mr Conway added: "These restrictions are typically enforced by signs or cameras, so it's up to motorists to pay attention to the signage around these areas.

"Residents and permit-holders on these streets are usually exempt, but it's always best to confirm the limitations with your local council."

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Blue Badge holders and emergency vehicles are also typically exempt, although delivery drivers and tradespeople may not be exempt from the rules and could need to use alternative routes.

TfL explained that the expansion forms part of its new Walking and Wheeling Action Plan, which also includes proposals for 1,000 new pedestrian crossings by 2031.

The transport authority said the measures are designed to make walking "easier and more pleasant" across London.

Christina Calderato, director of transport strategy at TfL, said: "Walking is already at the heart of how Londoners get around, but we know too many people are still put off by safety concerns, poor crossings or inaccessible streets.

"This new plan sets out how we'll change that by making it easier and more pleasant to walk for everyday journeys, whether that's getting to school, the station or the local high street."

TfL stated the plans support the Mayor of London's ambition for 80 per cent of journeys in the capital to be made by walking, cycling or public transport by 2041.

The plan also aims to deliver 1,000 new pedestrian crossings in the capital by 2031, making it easier and safer to cross roads.