Perth School Open Street Trials marked the first-ever implementation of School Open Streets in Western Australia, building upon successful models from London, Paris, New York, and Melbourne. Led by BDW and commissioned by the Western Australia Department of Transport, the open streets aimed to address school traffic congestion, improve safety, and encourage active travel.
BDW led the full project lifecycle, from stakeholder engagement to planning, approvals, and implementation. The process began with a series of co-design workshops involving school staff, local government, and community stakeholders. BDW then managed the extensive planning process, securing permits, engaging with residents, and developing communication strategies to ensure community support.
The trials were conducted at two primary schools in the City of Canning—Riverton Primary Campus and Queens Park Primary School. Each school hosted three Open Streets days, during which roads adjacent to the school were closed to vehicular traffic before and after school. Across both schools, a total of twelve Open Streets events took place.
The results demonstrated overwhelming support from students, parents, and school staff. Surveys conducted during the trial showed that:
- Participation was substantial, with an average of 300 students and parents attending at Riverton and 160 attending at the smaller Queens Park school.
- Over 90% of parents and teachers supported the initiative and wanted it to continue.
- Active travel participation increased, with more students walking, riding, or scooting to school.
- Traffic congestion decreased in the surrounding areas, improving safety and air quality around the school gates.
- Students reported feeling safer and more engaged, with many enjoying the added freedom to walk and cycle with friends.
Beyond the immediate benefits, the trials served as a proof-of-concept for School Open Streets in Western Australia, setting the stage for future expansion. The success of the initiative was largely due to the strong collaboration between BDW, the Department of Transport, the City of Canning, and participating school communities.
Through detailed planning, innovative engagement strategies, and hands-on delivery, Perth School Open Street Trials successfully demonstrated how reimagining school streets can create safer, more vibrant, and healthier communities.
