Speed limits outside six primary schools are set to get lower in a new trial.

New 20mph speed limits are being introduced outside Allington, Hunton, South Borough, Leeds and Broomfield, St Francis and Lenham schools.

While the new limits will be enforceable by police there will be no physical traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps, during the six-month trial.

Any decision to make the new limits permanent will be made by Kent County Council and the police. It will cost a maximum of £15,000 per site, which is being met from a Highway Fund, held by Kent County Council.

Any decision to make the trial permanent will be made by the Highway Authority in consultation with the Kent Police.

Bryan Sweetland, a Kent County Council cabinet member for the Environment, Highways and Waste, said: "Educating pupils about road safety is an essential part of our strategy. Some drivers also need reminding of the need to drive appropriately, especially in areas where there are vulnerable road users.

"Even a marginal reduction in speed can affect the severity of an injury."

The move has been welcomed by the Maidstone Green Party.