A PROGRAMME to limit traffic outside one of Trafford's primaries started last week.

Starting on Friday, and for up to 18 months, Delamere Road and Mardale Avenue outside Flixton Primary are designated as 'School Streets' on a trial basis.

This means, for the length of the trial, the two roads are to close to traffic between 8.15am and 9.15am and again between 2.45pm and 4pm on school days.

The aim of the programme, which a part of the multi-million-pound Urmston Active Neighbourhood scheme, is to encourage parents and pupils to cycle or walk to school.

Cllr Andrew Western, the leader of Trafford Council, said: "I am delighted we are launching the first of our proposed School Streets at Flixton Primary to help improve the safety of the children travelling to and from school. We are committed to making Trafford’s streets safer, and this scheme is expected to bring significant benefits for the school and local communities.

READ MORE: Children involved in Trafford Council's School Street Programme.

"The temporary closure at drop-off and pick-up times will help to reduce congestion, pollution and support our commitment to fighting climate change. It will also encourage active travel, leading to better mental and physical health. The result is a safer, healthier, and better environment for everyone."

According to Trafford Council's website, there is a plan for a trial at a total of five schools. If the trial at Flixton Primary and at other schools is successful, it might be made permanent.

Children from English Martyrs Catholic Primary and Urmston Primary were involved in the promotion of the programme last month, but the inclusion of these schools is not confirmed.

For information on School Streets, go to trafford.gov.uk/schoolstreets.

And for information on the Urmston Active Neighbourhood scheme, go to trafford.gov.uk/urmstonactiveneighbourhood.