TWO roads leading to Haddington's two primary school buildings will be closed to most traffic during school travel times under a scheme believed to be the first of its type in the UK.

Victoria Road and Neilson Park Road - which are both used to access King's Meadow Primary School and the new Haddington school joint campus, which houses St Mary's RC and Haddington Infant schools - will become 'pedestrian zones' Monday to Thursday, 8.30-9.30am and 3-4pm; and Friday 8.30-9.30am and 11.45am-12.45pm during the school term.

The restrictions will prohibit vehicular traffic from the roads during those times, except residents, blue badge or permit holders.

A report by Brian Cooper, presented to East Lothian Council's cabinet on Tuesday, stated that the two roads were currently "experiencing ongoing significant pedestrian road safety issues caused by drivers bringing their vehicles too close to the school gates".

It added: "The behaviour of these drivers, who make dangerous turning and reversing manoeuvres and contribute to congestion, cause difficulties for the majority of the pupils and parents who walk or cycle to and from school." Members agreed to the introduction of an experimental traffic regulation order which will come into force on April 8, 2013 and continue for a trial period to June 30, 2014.

The report noted that enquiries had found that "this may well be the first use of these signs for this purpose" anywhere in the UK.

Representations were made in the process by the parent councils of the three schools affected.

Councillors welcomed the move, but ward member John McMillan (Lab) was keen to ensure it would not see traffic building up on other roads close to the school.

Councillor Stuart Currie (SNP) said adding the restrictions was a "last resort", with campaigns having been run and letters having been sent to parents.

He added: "One thing we need to consider is doing a safety audit of probably most of the primary and secondary schools in East Lothian."