ROAD safety measures introduced around several Frome schools will now remain in place permanently following the success of an 18-month trial.

The Frome Safer School Streets scheme has been running since April 2024, with roads around four primary schools in the western part of the town being subject to 20mph speed limits, distinctive traffic calming measures, and being closed to motorised vehicles at pick-up and drop-off times.

The scheme was initially funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) as an 18-month trial, being overseen by Frome Town Council in partnership to Somerset Council and the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans).

Following a consultation in April, the town council has now confirmed that the changes are “here to stay”, with data collected during the trial showing a sharp drop in local congestion and vehicle speeds since the scheme’s introduction.

CCTV footage of the Park Road zone near Avanti Park School has shown a “significant improvement” in traffic levels since the start of the scheme, with an average 36 per cent reduction in traffic volume at drop off and pick up times.

In addition, surveys carried out by the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust in October 2022 and October 2024 demonstrate a reduction in average speed along part of the new 20mph zone on Somerset Road and Oakfield Road.

The town council’s own research has indicated that a majority of respondents approve of the scheme continuing – with a reported increase in active travel to school from parents since the pre-trial survey.

Under the newly-completed traffic regulation order, the timed road closures, 20mph limit and traffic-calming measures in the areas around Oakfield, Trinity and Critchill schools, and on Park Road near Avanti Park School will remain on a permanent basis.

Town councillor Anita Collier said: “We’re pleased to see the traffic order for the Safer School Streets made permanent, and to hear from a majority of survey respondents about the positive impact the scheme has had for them.

“In particular, the high approval rating from parents and schools is an endorsement of the project, from the people who stand to benefit most from safer travel to and from school.

“We’re also delighted to see the positive impact of the new zebra crossing on The Butts, which was only possible because of School Streets.

“Analysis of narrative feedback across both surveys, plus traffic monitoring data that demonstrates a reduction in traffic speed and volume, justify the retention of the scheme.”

Local residents can continue to give their feedback on the existing changes as the school year rolls forward, as well as suggesting new improvements which could secure government grants.

Councillor Carla Collenette said: “The conversation doesn’t end here: we know that some areas of the scheme are more successful than others and that some challenges remain.

“We are still listening and keen to work with the community and our partners at Somerset Council to ensure the investment in Safer School Streets can keep delivering in the longer term.”