The Canadian province of British Columbia has unveiled a new traffic calming measure in West Vancouver that creates an optical illusion resembling a child playing in the road.

Canadian health and safety organisation Preventable, along with the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation and the district, launched the 3D illusion school zone pilot project to raise drivers awareness in the school zones.

The pilot project, to be implemented during the first week of the new school term, will exist for only one week to raise awareness.

The 2D image of a child has been painted on to the road near Pauline Johnson Elementary School and can be seen by drivers from 100ft away, according to Preventable.

The road also displays clearly marked school zone signs informing drivers of a 30km maximum speed limit.

The measure has been started following careful consultation and a risk assessment involving the local council, parents, the school board, engineers and the police.