Stricter traffic regulations are coming into effect as St Sampson's institutes 'school zone' measures
St Sampson's High School is set to become the first secondary school in Guernsey to adopt the school street scheme, as part of a new trial set to commence on September 4, 2025. The trial will see La Vielle Rue in Baubigny temporarily closed to motor traffic during the beginning and end of school days for nearly two months.
This extension of school street initiatives near St Martin's Primary School and La Houguette Primary School aims to encourage active travel to and from lessons. The decision to close the road was made by the local municipal authority, with the success of the trial to be reviewed by Traffic & Highways, and a report submitted to Environment & Infrastructure.
Vicky Godley, Principal of St Sampson's High School, expressed her pride in the school's participation and looked forward to seeing the impact of the trial, which has already proven successful in over 1,000 schools worldwide.
Paul James, Traffic and Highway Services Road Safety Officer, considers encouraging active and alternative transport as one of the department's key goals. In partnership with Traffic and Highway Services and the Health Improvement Commission, St Sampson's High School identified La Vieille Rue as the road with the greatest potential to reduce traffic, improve safety, and encourage more students and staff to walk or cycle to school.
The affected street, La Vielle Rue, will remain accessible for bicycles, emergency vehicles, and people who live on the road between 08:00-8:30 and 15:00-15:30. Feedback on the trial can be provided to Traffic & Highways by emailing [email protected] or writing to Traffic and Highway Services before 20 October 2025.
The trial will also be monitored, with a final decision on whether the restriction should be extended for another year to be made by Environment & Infrastructure. The success of the trial in Baubigny follows the implementation of similar initiatives near St Martin's Primary School and La Houguette Primary School.
This marks Guernsey's third school street, furthering the island's commitment to promoting active and sustainable travel for its students and staff.
