School street to be redesigned by Croydon council over concerns churchgoers could be fined

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

Concerns that churchgoers and people attending funerals could get fined under Croydon traffic restrictions means a planned ‘school street’ is being redesigned by the council.

A “technical glitch” also meant exempt residents also had difficulty applying for permits.

The restricted zone outside Harris Academy Crystal Palace was due to go live on March 13 with nine other schemes, but was pulled at the last minute.

Croydon council said this was to make amendments to the design of the changes in Sylvan Road.

It was expected to affect Sylvan Road, Kitley Gardens, Cantley Gardens, Windall Close and Maberley Close.

Crystal Palace councillor Claire Bonham said the initially proposed scheme included the entrance to the car park of St John The Evangelist church, which fronts Auckland Road.

But a problem with the website meant those who were eligible for an exemption permit were unable to apply in time.

The Liberal Democrat councillor said: “There was a technical glitch with the application process which meant people who live in the exclusion zone were told they weren’t eligible. I think they have fixed that now.

“The other issue was with St John’s Church – the entrance to the car park was within the school street zone. There were concerns that people would get fined for attending funerals and services.”

Despite the delays and poor communication, Cllr Bonham thinks the restrictions are a good idea. She added: “I have to say the communication from the council to residents was pretty woeful.

“I do believe if done right these school streets can be really, really good. I think the idea is great but they have to be implemented well.”

A Croydon council statement said: “The Harris City Academy Crystal Palace School Street will see amendments to the design on Sylvan Road, based on local input from residents and community groups.

“The scheme will launch in a few weeks, and more details are expected to be released soon.”

The council said anyone within the boundaries of the scheme should receive a letter in the next few weeks with more information on the next steps.

Pictured top: The Harris Crystal Palace school street has been postponed (Picture: Google Street View)