Environment - Pedestrianisation

1. Pedestrian areas have been introduced in many towns and cities to provide a pleasanter, and safer environment for shopping.

2. They have been developed in many areas to try to attract shoppers back to the city centre from the large out-of-town shopping malls.

3. Pedestrian areas improve the air quality due to the reduction in pollution because of exhaust fumes and reduce noise pollution.

4. Some pedestrian areas restrict all traffic whereas others allow bicycles and designate times for loading and unloading.

5. Some allow public transport into these area by the use of rising bollards which buses can operate automatically.

6. Many local businesses worry that their business will be affected if the area becomes pedestrianised.

7. Traffic flow often needs to be changed and one-way streets introduced.

8. Parking must be improved, often multi-storey car parks are built on the edge of pedestrian areas.

9. Some cities introduce Park and Ride schemes, so people can park out of town and travel in on cheap, regular public transport.

10. Once improvements have been made, often only large retailers can afford the rents in pedestrian areas.

11. Most pedestrian areas use paving stones for a base.

12. Seating is important in pedestrian areas as it offers people a place to meet, rest and enjoy their surroundings.

13. It is important that there are not too many benches as they can create obstacles in a busy town centre.

14. Pedestrian areas need many litter bins in order to keep it clean and tidy.

15. These have to be fixed to the ground, placed near the seating and be close-topped.

16. This is so the bins do not fill with water, or allow litter to be blown away.

17. Trees and plants in pedestrian areas provide shelter and colour and improve the air quality.

18. Planted areas also make the area look softer, greener and more attractive.

19. Fountains and sculptures may also be found in some pedestrian areas.

20. Refreshment facilities are important, especially those with outside seating.

21. A mix of outlets is necessary if pedestrian areas are to be busy at all times eg, bars, galleries and shops.

22. Lighting is important in pedestrian areas so that people feel safe in the evenings.