City roads may be closed for children to play

Children in Wales could soon be about to claim the streets. Swansea Council is exploring the idea of residents being allowed to close their road to through traffic, to give children the space and freedom to play outside their front doors.



The intention is that, by making playing in the street easier, children will not only increase their physical activity, but also enhance their social skills and develop better connections with their community. Full council will be briefed about plans to pilot the Play Streets programme, which would operate on evenings and at weekends.

Mitch Theaker, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Community Leadership, said the council was looking at initially introducing the scheme in a few areas. "We want to create areas where children and teenagers can play safely without the danger of traffic, giving parents peace of mind and potentially creating a greater sense of community," said Councillor Theaker.



"We are hoping to trial the Play Streets programme in areas where something similar has already taken place, such as Jubilee street parties or National Play Day events." He said that if the pilot was a hit, people would be asked to recommend other Play Streets.