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Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and Population Health

Low traffic neighbourhoods are being trialled  in some cities, particularly London, with 4% of Londoners living in low traffic neighbourhoods implemented between March and September 2020.

An article in the BMJ says to reduce motor traffic, we need to make driving less attractive and alternatives better — that is, mixing “sticks” and “carrots.”   Low traffic neighbourhoods do this by using bollards, planters, and cameras to remove through traffic from neighbourhoods while retaining motor vehicle access to all homes. The carrot is safer, more pleasant walking and cycling (thanks to reduced motor traffic), with the stick being slightly less convenient car journeys. Such measures suit minor urban streets, where most people live (91% of people in London—a proportion similar across demographic and socioeconomic groups).6 Low traffic neighbourhoods sit within a suite of measures to reduce car use or mitigate its consequences. These include protected cycle tracks and bus priority lanes, clean air zones, and 20 mph (30 kph) speed limits.
To find out more visit says The BMJ.

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