Manchester City Council

Consultations and surveys School Streets enforcement review

Help improve school streets

We introduced School Streets in 2021 to help make journeys to school safer and easier.

We now want to improve how they work.

What is changing

We plan to replace barriers and volunteers with camera enforcement.

We will use ANPR cameras (Automatic Number Plate Recognition).

These cameras can:

  • check number plates
  • allow approved vehicles to enter
  • issue fines (Penalty Charge Notices) to vehicles that break the rules

We also plan to reduce the number of exemptions.

Why this matters

These changes will:

  • reduce traffic outside schools
  • make streets safer for children and families
  • reduce pressure on school staff and volunteers
  • make the system more consistent

Where this will happen

We are proposing camera enforcement at:

  • Brookburn Primary School
  • Manchester Communication Primary Academy
  • Manley Park Primary School
  • St Augustine's CofE Primary School
  • St James' CofE Primary School
  • St Paul's CofE Primary School
  • Our Lady's RC Primary School

How enforcement will work

Cameras will automatically check vehicles entering the street.

This will:

  • improve how well people follow the rules
  • remove the need for barriers and staff
  • make enforcement more reliable

All cameras will follow data protection laws.

Who can enter (exemptions)

We plan to reduce exemptions so fewer vehicles can enter.

Likely exemptions

  • residents and businesses in the area
  • Blue Badge holders who need access
  • school vehicles
  • public buses
  • emergency services

Temporary exemptions (with approval)

  • utility companies responding to emergencies
  • carers for vulnerable residents (with proof)
  • school transport (taxis and private hire vehicles)
  • waste collection (if routes cannot change)
  • people who are heavily pregnant or have a short-term condition

If approved, you will be able to apply online.

Have your say

We want your views and your experience of School Streets.

Complete the survey to:

  • share your views on camera enforcement
  • tell us how School Streets affect your area
  • explain how pupils travel to school

Read more about School Streets.

The consultation closes on 6 September 2026 so take part now.