In Leeds, streets are being temporarily closed to traffic so kids have more space to safely play - an initiative proving beneficial to both children and adults.

Temporarily closing residential streets to allow kids to play and socialise safely outside has proved beneficial for both children and adults Seven-year-old Aydin is relishing the chance to play somewhere new. It's Colenso Mount, a street in the Holbeck area of Leeds where he lives, which has been temporarily closed to traffic to become a ‘Play Street’. "Everyone can ride scooters and the boys over there play football which is very fun", he says excitedly. As Aydin jumps a scooter over ramps set up in the middle of the road, children around him are drawing with chalk, blowing bubbles and kicking a football in a spot where cars are usually driving through. It’s a rare chance for the kids in this neighbourhood to play outside together, in a space big enough to frolic and safe from traffic. According to a survey from the campaign group Play Their Way, external, out on Wednesday, nearly half of parents (46%) say their child doesn't have a safe place to play outdoors. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is being urged to bring back a national play strategy, external for children in England - an initiative he championed while culture secretary in 2008. Both Wales, external and Scotland, external have already made it a legal requirement for local authorities to ensure there are enough opportunities for children to play.