Want a play street? Get your skates on!
Kingston Council welcomes applications from more residents to host play streets and will fast-track completed applications in time for those hoping to catch the early autumn sunshine.
A play street is a regular event hosted by neighbours for each other so that the community can get together. A temporary road closure is put into place, free of charge, and neighbours young and old are encouraged to gather in their street to socialise and play.
This year Civil Engineering company RJ Dance have sponsored the scheme, so that play street hosts can borrow road signs to help their road closures run smoothly and safely
Neighbours in Piper Road, Norbiton have enjoyed play streets since 2019. One of the organisers, Suzanne Seyghal Buckingham, explains:
“The road I live in with my husband Graham, dog Haka and cat Cato, has lots of parking but is fairly quiet for traffic. It’s part of an active residents’ association - Sunflower Streets- with two neighbouring roads. We were inspired to host a play street for our little area, launching our first one to mark Car Free Day in 2019.
“It’s gone down really well. Residents were keen to support it, whether they have children or not. I don’t! It’s like a mini street party. On a busy month we might have 50-60 people, around 20 when it’s quieter. The play street brings people together who otherwise might not meet. We don’t spend much between us, perhaps putting out some squash or some little prizes for an easter egg hunt.
“From toddler crafting to teens skateboarding there has been a whole range of play. Haka loves to get out and play football with the children, whilst Cato prefers to stay indoors.”
Brothers Robin, 5 and Elliot, 8 are regular play street attendees. Robin explains why he enjoys them:
“It’s fun because it’s like a day out but we don’t have to go anywhere. And I like playing
with the big kids, especially the sport challenges.”
Elliot agrees:
“It’s fun because everyone gets to make new friends and try out new games, because every time it’s a different theme.”
Kingston Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Transport Cllr Ian Manders said:
“This year, Car Free Day takes place on Friday 22 September, a perfect opportunity to host a play street. Kingston Council is fast tracking new applications for residents wishing to host their first play street as part of Sustainable September, our annual celebration highlighting activities, events and information that enhances the natural environment.”
Usually applications can take eight weeks to process but the team is ready to move quickly to help people get involved in the month-long Sustainable September climate change activities. Play street hosts need to show evidence of support from more than 75% of the residents that will be affected by their proposed road closure. The scheme won’t suit every road but for streets where residents can agree to a temporary closure it can be a fun and safe way to build communities together.
Residents who are interested to find out more should visit Kingston.gov.uk/playstreets - Find out more about hosting a play street and start your application