Cyngor Gwynedd is stepping up efforts to support safe and sustainable travel around the county's schools.

A new resource pack has been created in response to requests about issues such as road safety, traffic congestion and parking problems.

It was launched at Ysgol y Garnedd in Bangor to mark National Walk to School Week and will be available to schools across Gwynedd.

Cllr Craig ab Iago, cabinet member for the environment, said: "Ensuring that areas around schools are safe for children is crucial."

"I was delighted to be part of the launch of this new transport pack which will be a great resource for schools to be able to share information and advice with families in a timely manner throughout the year."

"As part of that, the package is a practical step to supporting and encourage active travel for everyday journeys including to and from school."

"This helps to cut down on unnecessary carbon emissions, reduce traffic congestion and parking problems, making areas outside our schools safer, more attractive and healthier places for everyone."

Cyngor Gwynedd says the resource pack will provide "clear and practical information" for headteachers, staff and parents, along with useful ways to promote active travel and reduce traffic around schools, including:

• Practical resources such as videos, leaflets, templates and risk assessments
• Guidance on active travel, car travel and use of public transport
• Road safety training and education
• Good practice and local examples for schools to emulate
• Information about local campaigns such as the development of walking and cycling buses to school.

Glyder Bangor ward councillor Elin Walker Jones, who is also a governor at Ysgol Y Garnedd, said: "There are four schools in the vicinity and so we are very aware of the traffic and parking problems in the area, and fully realise the importance of active travel to improve children's health as well as the positive impact on the environment."

The pack, funded by the Welsh Government with support from Transport for Wales, has been designed to enable schools to share relevant information throughout the year.

Speaking at the launch, some of Ysgol Y Garnedd's pupils  who cycle, walk and scooter to school said: "When you’re tired in the morning, the fresh air makes you feel more refreshed. It helps you wake up and it’s fun!"

Cllr Dewi Jones, cabinet member for education, added: "It was very pleasing to see the transport package in place and that pupils saw a clear benefit in the resources that have been developed."

"This resource will provide our schools with valuable practical support to help children and families make safer and healthier travel choices, contributing to the long-term health and wellbeing of our young people."