A Play Street is a dedicated road or street that can be closed on days throughout the year to allow safe outdoor play and socialising.
We want as many streets as possible to become Play Streets.
This is because they encourage children to spend more time outdoors and stay active, rather than remaining at home using phones and tablets. We also know Play Streets strengthen community spirit, helping neighbours connect and build relationships with one another.
You make an application for the whole year and provide the dates you want the street to close.
Benefits of Play Streets
Play Streets:
- allow children to play close to home
- give children the space to play safely
- increase a sense of community by bringing neighbours together
- encourage more activities to take place in the local area
Getting neighbours involved
It’s important to gain support and also to let your neighbours know about the plans for your potential Play Street. They can then have the opportunity to discuss their ideas and raise any concerns.
You should:
- talk to people you know in your street to get an idea of interest and find out if any of them want to help you and get involved
- knock on doors and introduce the idea personally
- send a letter to all residents to introduce the idea and invite them to an informal residents meeting at a venue which is easy to get to.
Cost
It is free apply for a Play Street and close the street.
Make an application
You make an application to designate a Play Street and can include forthcoming closure dates on your application.
You will be able to add further dates later as long as you give six weeks' notice.
You need to make a new application each year.
It can take up to six weeks to hear back from us about your application.
If we approve your application and confirm your dates, we will drop off barriers for your road at least one day before the Play Street takes place.
