RESIDENTS are being invited to take part in a new initiative to enable children to play safely outside their homes.
Play Streets is being launched by Lichfield District Council’s Active Lichfield team.
It allows neighbours to close their road to through traffic for a couple of hours to create a safe place for youngsters to play near their homes.
Lead residents can organise and run a Play Streets event themselves supported by at least four other volunteers acting as stewards to safely direct any vehicles that need to enter or exit during the activity period.
Cllr Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for leisure and major projects, said:
“Play Streets gives children the freedom to play out safely in the streets and spaces where they live which is good for their health, development and happiness.
“I’m excited that we are introducing it here in Lichfield district. It supports our aim of residents being more active, more often and for longer and I would encourage people to apply to take part.”
Active Lichfield can support residents in setting up a Play Street by providing resources to consult with neighbours, helping with applications for a Temporary Play Street Order to shut a road and training volunteers.
People can find out more by visiting www.activelichfield.co.uk/play-streets.
