Two Macclesfield schools are set to spearhead a 'safe haven' parking-free pilot scheme.

Automatic number plate recognition cameras will be installed outside both Ivy Bank Primary and Marlborough Primary to help enforce signed stopping restrictions.

It is hoped this will improve safety as well as encourage more active travel. 

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, chair of Cheshire East Council's highways and transport committee, said: "This is an important trial scheme that seeks to improve safety outside schools – particularly at the beginning and end of the school day, which are busy and congested times. 

"Parking issues around school start and finishing times are a long-standing concern for this council, with typical enforcement measures sometimes proving to be only mildly effective and with fleeting impact on inconsiderate parking.

"We need to encourage more people to walk and cycle to school or park their vehicles and drop off pupils further away from schools to improve safety for all students, parents and residents in the area.

"If this pilot project proves a success, we may look to expand the number of schools taking part across the borough."

Marlborough Primary School in Tytherington (Credit: Google Maps)

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The pilot project, which is being run in collaboration with Derby City Council, also involves both Manor Park and St Vincent's primaries in Knutsford.

Cameras will be installed in the next few days, while the schools are closed for half term.

Under the Safe Haven Outside Schools pilot, drivers contravening parking bans will face £35 fixed penalty fines – which rise to £70 if not paid within 14 days.

If the scheme proves a success at reducing dangerous and illegal car parking, it could be rolled out across the borough. 

Councillor Goldsmith added: "This innovative camera technology is designed to promote a safer environment around the school gates by reducing congestion, which in turn contributes towards improved air quality.

"Local residents should benefit from improvements in driver behaviour and we really hope it will encourage motorists to reconsider the need to drive to school."

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