PLANS to close roads outside some Hampshire schools have been given the green light.

Roads outside a number of schools across the county are set to be closed to traffic as part of a trial set to be launched in the autumn.

The move aims to improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions and encourage more people to cycle and walk.

The names of the schools that will be involved in the scheme are yet to be confirmed.

But according to official documents, those shortlisted for the trial are: Foxhills Infant and Junior Schools and Cadland Primary School in the New Forest; Harrison Primary School in the Fareham Borough Council’s area; Alverstoke Infant School and Elson Junior School in Gosport and Petersfield Infant School in the East Hampshire District Council’s area.

The trial would consists of three schools, with a further three to six control schools to compare the impact of the measures.

Hampshire County Council – which will be responsible for the project- said the measures for each school street will depend on the specific needs of each location.

But as previously reported, the authority said “it is most likely” that roads outside schools would be temporarily closed by using barriers and cones and trained volunteers will help manage the closure.

The road closures are expected to be in place at the start and end of the school day.

The plans were approved by cabinet members at the county council earlier this week.

Cllr Rob Humby, executive member for economy, transport and environment, said: “We have a unique opportunity here to make the most of one of the positive changes that has come about during this past year, which is to encourage people to continue walking and cycling for their everyday journeys."

The authority said it will engage with parents, the wider community and local businesses.

The council said engagement on proposals is scheduled to take place before the end of March, ahead of a trial day or week in July before the full trial begins in September.