An influential city expert advises government officials to enhance the walkability and bike-friendliness of urban spaces in order to increase well-being, vitality, and individual liberties. This could potentially aid in resolving the housing shortage.
A recent report from the government’s Office for Place, chaired by Nicholas Boys Smith, presents a contrasting view to Rishi Sunak’s plan for drivers which prioritizes car usage over active travel and public transportation. Boys Smith argues that while cars offer convenience, they also restrict personal freedom.
“Do not harbor resentment towards cars. Do not engage in conflict with drivers. However, do not fight on their behalf,” Boys stated in the report from Create Streets, the urban design organization he established. “Instead, focus on promoting vibrant communities and creating better environments that foster happiness, health, prosperity, and productivity. The evidence shows that this approach will be praised by voters.”
The recent research, named Move Free, follows a string of actions taken by Sunak and his government officials to limit councils’ power in promoting walking and cycling. These measures include implementing low-traffic neighborhoods, 20mph speed restrictions, and bus lanes.
The report emphasizes the importance of politicians obtaining public approval before implementing measures to decrease car usage in cities. It also recognizes the vast advantages that have been seen in various countries as a result of such actions.
The statement suggests examining the evidence and information from your own town. It also mentions that in traditional English market towns, the most successful streets are those with a high number of street trees and tight roads that limit speed. Cars are allowed, but they are not the priority. Humans are considered to be the more important species, not cars.
The research suggests that cities with fewer fast-moving vehicles tend to have stronger economies, based on studies conducted in various cities globally. This is due to the increased attractiveness of these areas to residents. The removal of parking did not have a significant impact on retail sales, according to the study.
The report highlighted the positive impacts of increased walking and biking on individuals’ health and well-being. It also acknowledged previous studies that have demonstrated how streets dominated by cars restrict the independence of children.
According to the statement, automobiles greatly hinder the ability of children and teenagers to move around safely. This has resulted in a decrease in freedom for children compared to 50 or 100 years ago, fundamentally altering the character and liveliness of our cities.
According to the report, choosing alternative forms of transportation can greatly improve space efficiency, especially because cars spend 96% of their time parked. A push for more densely populated cities could also alleviate the housing crisis by enabling the construction of more homes in desirable locations.
Although common in most European cities, England has shifted away from promoting active transportation, prioritizing drivers based on ideology rather than research.
Therefore, the action taken by Boys Smith is significant as he was hired by Michael Gove to lead the Office for Space, which is located within Gove’s department focused on creating more equality.
In the accompanying comments from the report, created in collaboration with the organization Cycling UK, Boys Smith stated: “Cars have their benefits and drawbacks. They can promote freedom but also hinder it. They can contribute to the economy but also harm it. Ultimately, it depends on the context.”
Source: theguardian.com
