We spoke to Carol Richards, Volunteer Marshal Coordinator for the Crescent Road School Streets Scheme, a partnership between Maiden Erlegh School in Reading, UTC Reading, and Alfred Sutton Primary School.

The scheme closes Crescent Road to through traffic for 45 minutes at drop-off and pick-up times, creating a calm, safer and healthier space for pedestrians and cyclists. Supported by more than 20 dedicated volunteers, including parents, grandparents, local residents, and staff, it’s a model of community collaboration in action.

“I started volunteering because I wanted to give something back,” Carol explained. “After my children left home, the School Streets Scheme — and the accompanying litter picking — gave me a way to help keep the road calm, safe for pedestrians and cyclists, and to reduce congestion.”

Her motivation stems from what she’s seen first-hand. “During the closure, the atmosphere completely changes. Pupils and parents are calmer and happier, more students walk or cycle, and drivers are noticeably more considerate. It makes such a difference.”

The project began after Carol witnessed repeated near misses on Crescent Road during the pandemic. “There were cars mounting pavements, blocking driveways and ignoring the fact that thousands of pupils and staff use that road every day. The scheme helps drivers understand this is a school area, not a cut-through.”

Reflecting on the MET values, Carol said the project perfectly demonstrates Work Together. “Without our volunteers, the scheme wouldn’t have lasted four years. It’s a real community effort — people of all ages giving their time to keep children safe. But we always need new volunteers to keep it going.”

Looking ahead, Carol hopes the schools and residents will continue to work with Reading Borough Council to make long-term improvements. “We need to make Crescent Road one-way, upgrade street design, and introduce a dedicated traffic warden. That would make the scheme sustainable and keep our 2,000 pupils safe.”

We would like to thank Carol Richards and the Crescent Road volunteers for their outstanding commitment to pupil safety, community collaboration and environmental wellbeing.

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