Brent School Street Fines Exceed £1.15 Million

Brent Council has collected more than £1.15 million in penalty charge notices from a trial School Street outside Manor School in Kensal Rise since November 2024. The scheme, which aims to improve road safety and the environment during school drop-off and pick-up times, has been operating for 21 months. During this period, the council has averaged £54,799 in fines per month, with enforcement occurring only during term time.

Concerns Over Signage Visibility

Local Ward Councillor Barbara Want has expressed concerns regarding the visibility and placement of the signage for the School Street. She stated that the signs at the road entry points are positioned too high, leading many drivers to miss them and remain unaware of the restrictions. Councillor Want argued that the substantial volume of fines issued suggests the scheme is not functioning effectively, despite the council's assertion that the signs comply with Department for Transport guidelines.

Councillor Want suggested that the scheme's significant revenue generation indicates a potential focus on income rather than its stated goals of improving road safety or air quality. She noted that while the council has agreed to trial new gateway features, many drivers have already incurred fines. She believes it should not have required persistent advocacy to address the stark data suggesting the scheme's shortcomings.

Council Plans for Improvement

Councillor Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Cleaner Streets, Transport, and Public Realm, acknowledged that driver compliance remains too low. He stated that the council plans to install additional lower-level warning signs and trial gateway features to make the School Street clearer for motorists. Councillor Knight reiterated that the primary purpose of School Streets is to enhance child safety and reduce congestion, particularly important for Manor School, which serves children with complex special educational needs.

He added that the current signage adheres to Department for Transport requirements and is supported by advance warning signs. The council intends to continue reviewing the scheme and implement practical improvements to assist drivers in complying with the restrictions.